Database Info

RCA RCT6203W46 Pro10 Tablet: Catch-all Thread

Fellow Pro10 6203 users:
Welcome! As we do not yet have a forum dedicated to this device, I am creating this thread to serve as a means to share everything that I've come to discover about the usage of this inexpensive yet capable Android tablet. This thread will include varying topics such as rooting, custom recovery, accessories, customization apps, custom ROM's, and anything else I might come across that may enhance our experience with the product. I have found no real one-stop source for information concerning this device, so I am beginning this one that I hope everyone that owns one will find useful. Please feel free to ask questions and add constructive commentary
Tech Specs:
Model Number: RCT6203W46KB
Operating System: Android 4.4.2
CPU Chip: Quad Core
CPU Chipset Model Number: MTK MT8127 1.5GHz
GPU: Mali-450 MP
Resolution: 1024x600
Density: 160dpi
Screen Features: 10.1 Thin-film Transistor
RAM: 1GB
RAM Type: DDR3
Storage Capacity: 16GB
Camera: Yes (Front & Back)
Camera Specifications: Front Facing 0.3M pixel webcam (640x480), Rear 2M pixel webcam (1600x1200)
Battery Life: 6 hours
Battery Life Details: Playback downloaded video with WiFi turn off
Connectivity/Audio: Headphone jack, Micro USB, DC jack, Micro HDMI
Dimensions: 262(W)x165(H)x11.5(D)
Weight: 921g
Software: Walmart, Sam's Club, Vudu, eMusic, Kingsoft Office
Included Accessories: Power adapter, Keyboard Folio
If you happen to find something here worth your while, please hit the thanks button!

Rooting
Always remember, you root your device AT YOUR OWN RISK. Rooting will void your warranty and you may brick your device in attempting this. Its a choice and you're the only one who can make it.
Rooting instructions (tested up to RCA firmware 1.9.50):
(Beginning with a tablet never before rooted, or has been completely unrooted prior)
1. On your tablet, go to Settings > About tablet > Build number and tap the build number 7 times. This will unhide the Developer options menu.
2. Tap the Developer options menu. Enable it by sliding the slider to the right in top bar. Select "USB debugging" by placing a check mark in the box next to it.
3. Go to Settings > Security. Select "Unknown sources" by placing a check mark in the box next to it. Deselect "Verify apps" by removing the check mark in the box (you can enable it again afterwards if you wish).
4. Connect your tablet to PC via USB.
5. Download the Windows iRoot rooting application here.
6. Install the app.
7. Start iRoot and follow instructions to root. Remember to enable USB permissions on tablet when prompted.
8. Once successfully completed, download and install SuperSU from here to replace the Chinese root manager called Superuser 1.0.4.
9. Start SuperSU and you will be asked for permission, choose to allow.
10. SuperSU will prompt to install SU binary, go ahead with OK and install normally (not TWRP). IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO INSTALL THE BINARY.
11. Once SuperSU is installed and the binary updated, you can uninstall Superuser 1.0.4 and the second app it installs, something like "Clean Master" (unless you want it).
Happiness is now achieved with having a rooted device
* For further details regarding root, please see "Rooting considerations" in the Misc. section below.

Custom Recovery
Always remember, you install a custom recovery on your device AT YOUR OWN RISK. Installing a custom recovery will void your warranty and you may brick your device in attempting this. Its a choice and you're the only one who can make it.
99% of the credit for this section goes to johnemc2, PatF and mexicandroid for creating and contributing to this thread. Although it was created for a different but similar RCA tablet model, they provided everything I am going to reiterate here. Also the original thread for TWRP on MediaTek devices (which is the chipset for these RCA tablets) is here, and all credit goes to yuweng for this. Make sure to hit the thanks button in the respective threads for these guys!
TWRP installation instructions (tested up to RCA firmware 1.9.50):
1. Device must be rooted. See rooting section above or use another method of your choice.
2. Download the TWRP recovery image for the 6203 from here. Rename it by deleting "[RCA 6203 TWRP - Remove this tag]" so that the file name reads only "recovery.img" (with no quotes of course).
3. Place this file on your external sdcard.
4. Download and install [ROOT] Rashr Flash Tool from here. If the app suggests updates, go ahead and install them.
5. Rashr will ask you to make a backup. If you try, it will fail. Not to worry too much though, a stock recovery image is available below.
6. Start Rashr. From the menu, tap Recovery from Storage. From the "Pick a file" menu select /storage/emulated. Select /storage/, then select sdcard1/. From there select the recovery.img file you saved in step 3.
7. It will give you a warning prompt asking if you are sure. If so, select "Yes please" to install TWRP.
8. Upon successful flashing of TWRP you will have the choice to boot into the custom recovery, go check it out!
9. One procedural maintenance item to perform after: I have noticed that the rashr app holds on to a large amount of data for some reason and haven't found the need. Once you reboot, you can go into Settings > Apps > All and find Rashr and clear data to reclaim the space.
Good guide for using TWRP can be found here.
How to manually get into recovery (TWRP or stock):
From a powered off state, simultaneously depress the power and volume up buttons until the white RCA boot screen appears. Once this screen appears, release the power button but REMAIN DEPRESSING THE VOLUME UP BUTTON until you are in recovery.
Stock recovery installation:
It is the exact same procedure as was with TWRP, with the exception of step 2. Instead download the stock recovery image from here, rename it by deleting "[RCA 6203 Stock Repacked - Remove this tag]" so that the file name reads only "recovery.img" (with no quotes of course). Continue on using step 3 above. Check out why you might need the stock recovery image in the "Firmware updating considerations" area of the Misc. section below.
Ultimate happiness and assurance is now achieved with having a custom recovery installed on your device to back it up!

Accessories
Here are some of the accessories I am currently using for the 6203:
Cases:
The keyboard case is good, but I found it cumbersome in most cases and unnecessary. So I purchased this case from Ebay. Here are some photos of mine. I have had it for 5+ months with no issue upon daily use.
Screen Protectors:
I purchased this anti-glare and anti-fingerprint screen protector from Amazon. Although they now have it for the 6203, at the time they only had them for the 6103 and I had to modify it. But 5 months later it is still great. Being anti-glare means there is a slight matte to them, but overall I found it hardly effected the clarity of the screen. It really kept having to wipe off the screen due to fingerprints to a minimum!
I am just sharing what I have found to work for our devices and hope it helps you too in some way!

Customization Apps
Customization apps that require root (seeing rooting section above):
Xposed Framework. Man is this awesome. Here is the description from the site: Xposed is a framework for modules that can change the behavior of the system and apps without touching any APKs. That's great because it means that modules can work for different versions and even ROMs without any changes (as long as the original code was not changed too much). It's also easy to undo. As all changes are done in the memory, you just need to deactivate the module and reboot to get your original system back. There are many other advantages, but here is just one more: Multiple modules can do changes to the same part of the system or app. With modified APKs, you to decide for one. No way to combine them, unless the author builds multiple APKs with different combinations. You can find version 2.6.1 for our tablet here (select "show older versions" at the bottom of the page).
GravityBox [KK]. TONS of customization for our device. Find it here.
Customization apps that do not require root:
Blacked out or inverted apps. I love darkened apps. I prefer a black or dark background to most apps. It looks good and is easier on the eyes! You can download the Team Blacked Out updater apk from here. You can download many popular apps that have been "blacked out" by this team.
I am just sharing these apps for fellow fans of customization. Enjoy!

Custom ROM's
[reserved]

Misc.
Rooting considerations:
Although there is a risk of bricking the device in doing so, to date I have rolled through both the 1.3.51 and 1.9.50 RCA updates without the update being hindered by having my device rooted prior (never unrooted), and I have not lost root once the update completes. Although I have not tried this without, I believe this may be because I use SuperSU Pro OTA survival. This app is not necessary, but the free version does not have the "OTA survival mode" that the pro version possesses. I recommend spending the $3.75 for purchase.
Firmware updating considerations:
If you delete any of the bloatware apps that comes preloaded (VUDU, Walmart, Sam's Club, Opera, etc.) and try to update the device, it will soft brick your tablet. This is because the update performs a core app comparison check to test validity prior to completing installation. You will only be able to get into stock recovery once this happens. Therefore my recommendation is not to delete any of these apps but instead use Titanium or MyBackup Pro to freeze them, and prior to attempting any firmware update remember to UNFREEZE THEM FIRST. This will save you any headache with the firmware updates.
I do not think you can install an official firmware update via TWRP, so you may need to reinstall the stock recovery to do this. See the "Custom Recovery" section above.

Misc. #2
[reserved]

One frustrating thing about our device is that some apps will not install from the Play store. It will state "this item is not compatible with your device". Well I have tried many methods to circumvent this, including changing prop files and using apps that fake screen densities. I don't recommend that . Instead I sideload. I use a Google Chrome extension called APK Downloader. You can get it here. To set up it will ask for devide ID info. I plug in the number for my S4. Once downloaded, I just copy the apk over to my tablet and install from there. The only caveat to this is that it does not work for purchased apps.
There are other ways to procure the app and sideload, but this is the method I use most often for the 6203.

I have a support request in to RCA for these concerns (here is the text as I sent):
Hello,
I have 3 questions. The first is that by reading the specs for this tablet the CPU is supposed to be set for 1.5Ghz. But when you use the tablet, it is only set for 1300Mhz (1.3Ghz) (I can provide screenshots). Which is wrong and why?
My second question is do we have any access to a complete firmware ROM that can be used via recovery? This would be nice to have in case the tablet is soft bricked for any reason. Update ROMs do not provide this.
Lastly, is there anywhere to download USB drivers for this tablet?
Thanks in advance for your help.
From RCA:
Glen (RCA Support)
Apr 27, 3:18 PM
1) The max threshold is 1.5Ghz. The reason it is running at 1.3 is probably because your not using its absolute full capacity
2) We dont have the ROM
3) Is this for the USB stick or memory stick?
Glen
Technical Support
#Madeforyourlifestyle
My response:
Glen,
Here are my responses:
1. I have attached 3 screenshots from independent apps that all report the CPU set for 1.3Ghz and not 1.5Ghz. In fact they show the governor as having the range for the CPU set to 598-1300mhz. I believe this happened in the firmware 1.9.50 update and was not the case prior. Can you check to see why this was done? We purchased tablets that were intending on having a 1.5Ghz processor.
2. You will see many returns then from tablets that were soft bricked due to the most recent update corrupting the system file, and then only allowing people to boot into recovery and not into Android.
3. No, USB drivers as in this explanation: http://developer.android.com/tools/extras/oem-usb.html
Thanks. I really appreciate your assistance with these questions. Please let me know if there is any other information I can offer.
From RCA 5/4/15:
Glen (RCA Support)
May 4, 3:43 PM
The tablet will use the 1.5Ghz only when it will take big update like firmware updates.
#Madeforyourlifestyle
My response:
Glen,
There is no way for the Android kernel to know only to use full CPU capability during an upgrade procedure. Its there for all operations or it is not.
Can I have my concern escalated to your engineering team? As I said previous, the system showed 1.5Ghz was available in processing speed before the last upgrade.
Thanks
From RCA 5-7-15:
Hello,
We'd love to hear what you think of our customer service. Please take a moment to answer one simple question by clicking either link below:
How would you rate the support you received?
Good, I'm satisfied
Bad, I'm unsatisfied
Conclusion:
So apparently RCA doesn't intend to do anything about the most recent update failures outside of performing RMA's for people, and also doesn't care to answer why these tabs are advertised as 1.5Ghz and are being throttled to 1.3.

Rct6203w46-android4.4.2-3101-v50-v1.3.71
What can I do with this or this - no ROM Backups, and an annoying 'brick' on my table?
I successfully rooted with KingRoot and tried to manually switch to SuperSU with a script I found.
The script seemed workable. I found all of the targets and: # root.sh ... oh *hi*
The transition failed and after trying to 'clean up' remnants the script seemed to have missed, the screen froze: RESET BUTTON - nothing, nothing, nothing.
I wish I hadn't believed it would work without a 'dd ... system.img'. The tablet had about 12hrs mileage and is now a very new [Black Friday] $49 item about to be smashed on the driveway.
I read somewhere that RCA will not be distributing winusb drivers.
*uc* it - i b-roke i-t! :victory:
It's Alive! After the battery drained, 2 weeks later, it booted!
removed supersu

probeafargavin said:
What can I do with this or this - no ROM Backups, and an annoying 'brick' on my table?
I successfully rooted with KingRoot and tried to manually switch to SuperSU with a script I found.
The script seemed workable. I found all of the targets and: # root.sh ... oh *hi*
The transition failed and after trying to 'clean up' remnants the script seemed to have missed, the screen froze: RESET BUTTON - nothing, nothing, nothing.
I wish I hadn't believed it would work without a 'dd ... system.img'. The tablet had about 12hrs mileage and is now a very new [Black Friday] $49 item about to be smashed on the driveway.
I read somewhere that RCA will not be distributing winusb drivers.
*uc* it - i b-roke i-t! :victory:
It's Alive! After the battery drained, 2 weeks later, it booted!
removed supersu
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
probeafargavin,
Sorry for slow reply. Been a busy month! I recommend sending the unit back to RCA for an RMA. I had to do this once and although it took a month, I received back a working tablet. It doesn't matter that you did this, they will not check. They will end up sending you back a refurbed tablet. Mine works fine.
-droidify

Needing Help
I rooted my device (same exact make/ model you have listed). Well it just so happens that now I am not able to open the Google App store. I have clicked the app logo so many times now and all what I see is what looks like the app is about to open but it just disappears about a half second later.
Looks like I am no longer able to use the back button also. I have tried factory resetting the device yet problem remains. Clearing cache of the Google Play app, no results. Please help!!!!! I would surely appreciate it, I'm sure you can imagine how devastated I am over this.

C_Cee said:
I rooted my device (same exact make/ model you have listed). Well it just so happens that now I am not able to open the Google App store. I have clicked the app logo so many times now and all what I see is what looks like the app is about to open but it just disappears about a half second later.
Looks like I am no longer able to use the back button also. I have tried factory resetting the device yet problem remains. Clearing cache of the Google Play app, no results. Please help!!!!! I would surely appreciate it, I'm sure you can imagine how devastated I am over this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
C_Cee unless you have TWRP installed and had a back up, there is not much you can do. I would RMA the tablet through RCA. I had to do this once and it was a pretty quick turn around.
-Droidify

RCT203W46L Questions
Hi,
I have just purchased the above and rooted it with Kingroot. This is the lollipop 5.0 version.
a) a stagefright detector from lookout reports this device is vulnerable to this hack. Any thoughts?
b) are the twrp and stock recovery images pointed to by droidify post #2 and #3 still usable? even though its lollipop5.0?
Any help appreciated before I mod this thing!!
Thanks

kwmike said:
Hi,
I have just purchased the above and rooted it with Kingroot. This is the lollipop 5.0 version.
a) a stagefright detector from lookout reports this device is vulnerable to this hack. Any thoughts?
b) are the twrp and stock recovery images pointed to by droidify post #2 and #3 still usable? even though its lollipop5.0?
Any help appreciated before I mod this thing!!
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lollipop is going to have a different recovery, so what I posted likely will not work and may cause serious problems if attempted. Not sure about stagefright vulnerabilities.

Any advance?
No more advance in this device?

drakedalfa said:
No more advance in this device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My tablet is still going. Although not my daily driver device, I use it to watch videos on break at work and to read on. There hasn't been any development for this device that I am aware of and unlikely to be considering it is not that popular.

Flashing recovery from build Build: RCT6303W87DK-ANDROID5.0-V63-V1.12.20-B
kwmike said:
Hi,
I have just purchased the above and rooted it with Kingroot. This is the lollipop 5.0 version.
a) a stagefright detector from lookout reports this device is vulnerable to this hack. Any thoughts?
b) are the twrp and stock recovery images pointed to by droidify post #2 and #3 still usable? even though its lollipop5.0?
Any help appreciated before I mod this thing!!
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Aloha -
I just received one of these today:
Model: RCT6303W87DK (32GB)
Android version: Lollipop 5.0.
Kernel: 3.10.54
Build: RCT6303W87DK-ANDROID5.0-V63-V1.12.20-B
I installed NewKingrootV4.62_C133_B233_en_release_2015_11_24_105203.apk downloaded from www\.kingroot\.net
On the first attempt, Kingroot rebooted at 22%, and failed to root. I repeated the procedure without rebooting, and achieved root on the second attempt.
I am curious to know if you flashed TWRP and, if so, what results you had.
Also: does anyone know if, in fact, the 5.0 loader actually is different from the 4.4.2 loader.
Thanks in advance.

I'm confused, is this thread on the RCA Pro 10 RCT6203W46KB or for it's successor (I assume) the RCA 10 Viking Pro RCT6303W87DK. I ask because I have the RCT6303W87DK and am looking to see if there are any ROMs for it, as I would prefer to be running Android 5.1.2 or 6.0 over 5.0.

Installing Google Play on an MTK Devices without using Recovery

Hi, I am quite new to this forum and thus I do not know if this question has been asked before. Still, I've been googling for many hours prior to this (and failed...) and thus this is my last resort... :crying:
I own a cloned iPhone 6s plus with MT6982 chipset (detail obtained from using MTK Droid Tools), I was interested mainly due to it being free (given by a friend) + the hardware specs is quite good and comparable to most of the mid specs phones available on the market. Knowing that it runs on Android OS (4.2.2), I believe I can do much more with this phone.
ATM, I've rooted the phone (using Frameroot), and installed CWM Recovery on it using the MTK Droid Tools, sadly the recovery doesn't seems to be working as it can't seems to mount the SDCard (kept getting error). I was thinking of using the recovery mode to flash GApps on it so that I can get a working Google Play store on my device.
Now, i know that you can't simply copy the google playstore .apk and install it onto your device, but I am just wondering, is it possible to install google play store (including all of its other dependencies i.e google service framework..etc) directly to the phone from the homescreen?
PS - Will post the phone specs if requested, and in case I am in a wrong section... please help a brother and point him to the correct thread please.. :angel:
Thanks in advance!

anyone?

Complete Guide to Root and Update Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1

Hi all.
Complete noob here - just wanted to document my journey for resurrecting my daughter's Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 tablet to make it usable again.
It had stock rom on it (android 4.0.4) ICS and would not update. Consequently, none of the apps were working and basically it was ready for the trash.
Yes, it's 7 years old, but hey, why throw it in the trash - I thought I'd have a go at rooting and updating. It took me a couple of days but now it's done, it's updated to 7.1 Nougat and working flawlessly.
So here is my Journey - I hope it will help someone. Big thanks to all the Devs out there who have put countless hours into keeping this tablet alive (especially decatf who appears to be very nice person
This assumes no prior knowledge - but be warned - I am not responsible for any damage you cause to your device or if you "brick it". If that worries you do not proceed! By following the below guide, you will be wiping all data from your device so proceed with caution!!
The following worked for me to install Android Nougat on my device - mine is a GT-P7510 but I used the files for the GT-P7500 because when I tried the specific files for the P7510, they didn't work). You might have to get creative here and there to get yours to work!
1) Create folder on your PC / Mac computer desktop to put the required files in;
2) Download the files from here:
- Odin3-v1.85.zip - or do a search for it (this will be for "flashing" twerp onto your device)
- twrp311-20171009-p4.zip
- aosp-7.1-p4-20171005.zip
- P7500-open_gapps-arm-7.1-pico-20170416.zip
- GalaxyTabHacks.com_SuperUser.zip
- USB drivers if you need them are here: http://gizmoword.com/Files/2017/09/24/samsung-usb-drivers/
3. Instal Twerp / Custom Recovery
Before you can install custom software (Nougat etc) you will need to root the tablet. Before you root the tablet, you need to install TWERP which will allow you access to things like backup and recovery etc.
To install TWERP follow this guide and ensure you make backup before proceeding to step 4 - that way you can always go back to your stock image if there are any problems.
https://theunlockr.com/2012/05/11/h...od-recovery-on-the-wifi-only-galaxy-tab-10-1/
NOTE: in the above, it mentions ClockWorkMod (CWM) - However CWM did not work for me, so after installing CWM - I then installed TWERP (they basically do the same thing). I am not sure if you can simply install TWERP instead of CWM - but I installed TWERP over the top of CWM after I had followed the above guide.
4. Root the tablet: The following guide was very helpful to me;
https://theunlockr.com/2012/05/18/how-to-root-the-wifi-only-galaxy-tab-10-1/
and / or this one:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2361571
5. Now you should be ready to install the custom ROM (Nougat)
Follow these guides:
https://www.droidword.com/2017/11/2...10-1-gt-p7510-to-android-7-1-nougat-aosp-rom/
and here is the source code and infos;
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-tab-10-1/development/rom-android-7-0-nougat-t3471350
6. After following the above, I installed Gapps Pico (very small google basic apps needed for tablet boot e.g. playstore etc)
7. Reboot device and enjoy the setup. Congrats - if all went well you should now be on 7.1 Nougat and can download all your favourite apps.
You can also download and install other software e.g. Chrome browser optimised for your old tablet
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...t/app-chromium-m56-optimized-tegra-2-t3550210
Best of luck! Note - I am not developer of any of the above. Kudos to all the devs.

I followed your directions and now play store does not work. Can you help me??

I had to experiment with this because some of the files gave me problems. Aside from the aosp-7.1-p4-20171005.zip which does work some the files don't. I ended up using TWRP version 2.8.7.0. (there is no official TWRP for the GT-P7510. Closest one is called "Picaso" you can search specifically for that one). Whichever GAPPS you decide to use must be an "open" Gapps such as, open_gapps-arm-7.1-full-20181106.zip.
After flashing there were difficulties. Google Play apps won't download or install. Google Chrome or any other Google related apps do not function. There are no developer settings. I even tried to download some Developer Setting apks of which none work. The ROM in itself looks and works good except for those bugs. Camera and flash actually work properly.

X L ENT.
clappertrap said:
Hi all.
For a " Nooby " you have achieved an exellent result. I know a lot about PC's, But the Android OS is new for me. I followed your instructions to the letter. The end result is amazing, what a transformation. This article is very detailed and clear, also very well written. My compliments on a job well done. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Android 8 or 9?
Great post. I'm also a noob but am going to give it a try since you've laid everything out so nicely. One question I have before getting started is do you think this will also work with the latest versions of Android (8 or 9) rather than Android 7? Thanks much for any advice before I take the plunge!

Peter711 said:
Great post. I'm also a noob but am going to give it a try since you've laid everything out so nicely. One question I have before getting started is do you think this will also work with the latest versions of Android (8 or 9) rather than Android 7? Thanks much for any advice before I take the plunge!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My curent opinion is that the Android 7 version works better overall.

thread: Complete Guide to Root and Update Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
ok so most of the roms i have tested are overcome v2.3, nougat AOSP 7.1.2 , cwm clean rom v2 and others on the GT-P7510MA and i must say they are awesome builds to try and ressurect the tablet giving life to it but these Roms seem to dont give it the core functionality of playing games or even being able to handle the YouTube app version came in the pico packages or downloaded from the play store, can you developers from GitHub please work on this tablet.It gives constant crashes on playing games downloaded from the app store or opening certain apps other from that you guys would make my day and i would generously donate cause you guys deserve every penny!!! please fix this and we are ok worked for me but everything except games and the YouTube app. People remember most of these developers don't have the tablets, time or cash so we have to test on our tablets, donate so there cup of coffee doesn't runs out and report to them effectively right before there coffee runs out!

I'm still using mine. There were some similar issues I had and if I remember correctly Google play was the main issue with other Google apps. I think and this is going on memory. You would install the ROM then the GAPPS, but not flash both at the same time. Or Google apps would lock up for some reason and give you some issue. So for it to work correctly you flash the ROM. Turned it on and let it load up. Then you would turn it off so you could start up the TWRP recovery, then you would flash the GAPPS.
But Channel 48 put out a video on this if you get confused. This is the easiest way.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rN1Xwskjjfw&t=914s
And the update to 8.1 is also an option.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_bsR1Az3Sw&t=312s

Thanks @Casper Young I will take a look at the 8.1
It seems Channel48 has a lot of helpful videos. You can search for your exact model on his search page: for example, I am checking on P5110 here:
https://www.youtube.com/c/channel48/search?query=p5110

Hi, there, everyone
I've been trying to download the files needed, but most of the links no longer work. Where can I find the programs needed?

Step-by-step guide for new 2017 Fire HD 10 Owner: Root, FlashFire, Google, Launcher..

I have gone through the rooting and upgrading steps. Let me know if there is anything I missed.
1. Prepare PC. Install ADB and Fire HD 10 driver at https://developer.amazon.com/docs/fire-tablets/connecting-adb-to-device.html.
2. Don't connect to Internet. Keep the device offline. The instruction is in the thread for rooting. Note ROM version. I have version 5.6.1.0. Amazon has implemented anti-rollback boot loader since 5.6.1. If you upgrade using official channel, you won't be able to downgrade. If you follow the step below, root 5.6.1, update to 5.6.3 via FlashFire, it will leave the boot loader unchanged and allows you to downgrade if needed
3. Install ES File Explorer. Need to download the APK. Plug in the USB cable, copy the APK file, and use Documents app to file the file and install it.
4. Root.
4a. I first tried HD 10 (2017): Offline rooting. It's an offline process and does not transfer any of your data to internet (so less privacy concerns). It worked on the first try. However, I messed up the upgrade to 5.6.3.0 so I have to restore to stock 5.6.1.0. Then I could not get it to work. It either timed out or reported success but su is not found.
4b. I then went with KingoRoot. [TUT] ROOT HD 10 (7th Gen 2017) - EASY SuperSu (read this before 1st power on!). The rooting process stucked at 78% for a long time (5-10 min) but eventually succeeded
5. Disable OTA update. The instruction is in step 13 in [TUT] ROOT HD 10 (7th Gen 2017) - EASY SuperSu (read this before 1st power on!). I found out the Xposed installer requires internet, even though just briefly. So I decided it's better if I disable OTA.
6. Install Xposed & Flashfire. HD 10 (2017): Xposed, FlashFire, etc.. FF versions. (v0.24 or v.51) are attached in How to install Xposed & Flashfire for easy backups and ROM updates. In my experience, Xposed installer requires internet connection to install the framework. Otherwise you won't get the Official tab. I disabled WiFi once it's done.
6a. v0.51 did not work for me. It always crashes on start-up, regardless if I have time machine set
6b. v0.24 worked. retyre also mentioned it's more reliable in restore backup
7. Upgraded to 5.6.3 HD 10 (2017): Prerooted Xposed 5.6.3.0 image.
7a. I made a big mistake in the first attempt. I renamed the boot.gz and system.gz to .img file instead of extract the file inside the zip. FF accepted the file but generated error during the flash. After that, it got the Amazon bootloop. I had to restore the stock and restart from step 4
7b. Second time around, I put all the folder under /sdcard/FlashFire/Backups. Then I used restore function FF. This is safer and FF will check for md5sum and reject if the files are incorrect. This went through fine. The recovery step is at the bottom.
8. It's possible to disable OS update but continue to update Amazon packages. The instruction is in the second section in same link above How to enable Amazon packages (apk) updates but prevent the ROM updates (keeping root & rootable rom) This allows APK updates and install them in /data/app. The ROM in /system is not touched. It's a good way to stay current while not touching ROM (and keeping root!). Note the image flashed in step 7 already has this taken care of.
9. Install Google Play Store.
@bibikalka has provided the following (post #1)
Amazon Fire 5th Gen [SuperTool] Root, Google play install, block ota updates and more
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Run this tool and choose the option to install Google.
Worked!
Here are some other candidates but I did not try them.
COMPLETELY 'GOOGLE-IZE' YOUR AMAZON FIRE TAB (Confirmed Working)
[GUIDE] Sideloading Google Apps - 100% WORKING! (ROOT)
https://www.howtogeek.com/232726/how-to-install-the-google-play-store-on-your-amazon-fire-tablet/
10. Change SuperSU to limit app which has root access. SuperSU access workaround for Fire devices. For me: After forced stop, the App tab will show the new app added without reboot. However, the new app does not take effect until reboot. And upon reboot, any app not yet installed will disappear from the App tab
11. Remove lock screen ad. Use the super tool again and worked! Amazon Fire 5th Gen [SuperTool] Root, Google play install, block ota updates and more
12. Replace launcher. New: Any Launcher, No Root (Launcher Hijack V3). It worked but the flicker is killing me. I then used Tips, Tricks, and the Root!. Move Nova to system app using Link2SD and disable Fire Launcher. Much better. Note the following from that thread. And there must be empty line at the bottom of build.prop
You should install Nova as a system app. Then you get the Google Now page without having to install another apk. If you are going to keep Fire Launcher, but leave it disabled, add this line to your build.prop, at the very bottom:
Code:
ro.HOME_APP_ADJ=1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
13. [ROOT] Enable ALL Lock Screen Lock Options. You need the premium version of Activity Manager. In its settings, these options must be set: Show system app indicator (might be optional), Show not exported activities, Allow ROOT operations. In my experience, about 30% of time after reboot, the screen will loop between screen saver and black and never show the unlock pattern. I have disabled this function and went back to PIN. So I no longer recommend this step.
14. Disable bloatware. [GUIDE] Remove all bloatware from your Fire HD 10 (2017). This is written for 5.6.0. Updated: Amazon System App / Bloatware Tracking Sheet - as of FireOS 5.6.2.0. I did not find a thread for 5.6.3. Note the following 2 if you want to use them
My Account: com.amazon.kindle.otter.oobe
Backup & Restore: com.amazon.device.backup
15. Google Assistant. [GUIDE] [NO ROOT]: Activate FULL Google Assistant!.
Have to install specific version of Google App Google App 8.33.6.21 (arm-v7a) (nodpi) (Android 5.0+) and don't forget to disable auto-update in Play Store. Update: this is working. However, it's a bit sluggish. I have now uninstall Google Assistant.
---- Maybe Later: Other Optimization
Making The Most of Root on Fire Tablet 10 (tweaks/apps/modules/hacks/optimizations).
Appendix
A1. Recovery to stock ROM. The instruction is at Unbrick/Restore/Downgrade Stock Firmware [Amazon Fire HD 8 & HD 10]. This is written for the older version of Fire HD but the steps remain valid. The ROM is available from post 2 in [TUT] ROOT HD 10 (7th Gen 2017) - EASY SuperSu (read this before 1st power on!). I used the below
FireOS 5.6.1.0 (still rootable, but cannot be downgraded to anything earlier!)
update-kindle-40.6.0.5_user_605485120.bin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

@redhonker
Hmm, must have been hours on XDA to compile this together
For your Google Play Store issue, there is an oldie but goodie - Amazon Fire 5th gen SuperTool. Works like a charm to install Play store on Fire HD 10! In fact, I stopped messing with the GAPPS flashing for Fires even when I have root, and just use this tool. Since 2015, for most tablets the underlying Android is still the same - Lollipop 5.1.1
https://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/development/amazon-fire-5th-gen-supertool-root-t3272695
https://www.rootjunky.com/

bibikalka said:
@redhonker
Hmm, must have been hours on XDA to compile this together
For your Google Play Store issue, there is an oldie but goodie - Amazon Fire 5th gen SuperTool. Works like a charm to install Play store on Fire HD 10! In fact, I stopped messing with the GAPPS flashing for Fires even when I have root, and just use this tool. Since 2015, for most tablets the underlying Android is still the same - Lollipop 5.1.1
https://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/development/amazon-fire-5th-gen-supertool-root-t3272695
https://www.rootjunky.com/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I've added it to the first post. Will try that first.
The link you provided for rootjunky. What should I use from there? I can go to the section for Kindle Fire HD but I think it's the older model. I did own one before and I was able to install TWRP on it. But the 2017 model has no custom recovery available yet, right?

redhonker said:
Thanks, I've added it to the first post. Will try that first.
The link you provided for rootjunky. What should I use from there? I can go to the section for Kindle Fire HD but I think it's the older model. I did own one before and I was able to install TWRP on it. But the 2017 model has no custom recovery available yet, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, it was a bit confusing! You should be using this file (it's linked to in the XDA post):
http://rootjunkysdl.com/files/Amazon Fire 5th gen/SuperTool/AmazonFire5thGenSuperTool.zip
Once you unpack, you can start the bat script (under windows), and then it'll have option 2 which will install all Play Store components.

Thank you, this was helpful.. I have ordered a HD 10 as well and plan to do the same.
But, I'm confused on Step 2 and Step 4. In step 4, you say even the latest version can be rooted (which is my understanding as well), but in step 2 you say not to allow it to upgrade to the latest version.
Why not just do all the updates BEFORE rooting? Am I misunderstanding something?

wcarlson40 said:
Thank you, this was helpful.. I have ordered a HD 10 as well and plan to do the same.
But, I'm confused on Step 2 and Step 4. In step 4, you say even the latest version can be rooted (which is my understanding as well), but in step 2 you say not to allow it to upgrade to the latest version.
Why not just do all the updates BEFORE rooting? Am I misunderstanding something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I updated step 2. It refers to anti-rollback so you can't downgrade OS version.
Others have recommended against upgrade first. Maybe Amazon just released a new update and you won't be able to root or downgrade. Practically, it probably won't really happen.

redhonker said:
I just ordered one. I have gathered the following information. Please correct me if there is anything incorrect.
.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is really great I just got mine yesterday and I was just going to root and remove Amazons stuff. You reminded me that it's probably best to back up something before you start messing with it. I'm used to having a recovery like twrp though, but oh well. I'm wondering what path you will take in regards to installing FF and Xposed and doing a backup. I'm reading your links (from retyre) and it's suggested that you do the backup before installing Xposed (I think) but with FF and SuperSu as system apps. Are u going to use the DD command for back up or just use the altered version FF. I'm just a little confused after reading this links and just wanted to get your thoughts. Incidentally what are you using file explorer for? I would think you can just push it to the tablet than install it alternatively I have a USB to microusb that I think I can mount usb. Thanks. Unless things have changed es file explorer is full of bloat I would suggest mix explorer

I have rooted and installed xposed. I installed google play store and titanium backups. I couldn't really figure out how to install flashfire. But I'm to scared to try to add any modules on xposed as I still can't figure out how to restore my titanium back up??
I haven't done any rooting in a long time, but as far as my memory goes, you make an update.zip file as your backup but you need a custom recover or something to to be able to flash it? like TWRP. is flashfire that equivalent?

@looney417
Yes the bootloader is locked, as of now I guess, and so there is no custom recovery. I do believe flash fire is the method being used for raw backups. One of the links in the first post refers to Retyres work and he also mentioned the Linux command DD to make a back up after you gain root. There is some creative work arounds and some hard work and experimentation done here I think we are benefitting from. I'm struggling with the order of operations here too but I've been playing with and rooting devices since the original Google phone Nexus one and you always try and get a good back up before you start messing around. The one big no-no right now is flashing an older version of the fire OS. This results in a hard brick bc Amazon instituted anti roll back measures in there boot loader.

Hello, I have just rooted my new Fire with the offline method, I have followed all the steps for the newbie listed here but I got stucked at 5) point,
I read couple of times the topics about flashfire and Xposed but I really can't understand some things:
What exactly is Flashfire? Is it an app? Do I need it to upgrade the system?
In order to work FF needs Xposed? Or not?
Why Xposed could be useful on this Fire HD 10?
Last question, in the FF and Xposed topic is written that I have to dd my img?! And then root again?!
I am so sorry for my disability.... Is there any other clear guide to install Xposed and Flashfire? And something that explain why these tools are useful and what aim they pursue
Thank you everyone for this great guides about fire HD btw

I have just purchased a fire HD 10, i am also wanting to root, and install gplay but haven't rooted for a while, i have actually asked Amazon for a return label as i was extremely dissapointed with the poxy adds for the screensaver/lockscreen! I wish Amazon would word things correctly! "With offers" = With ADDS!!! "Without offers" = "Without ADDS"
Other than paying Amazon £10! is there a way to remove them?? Very curious to find out.
Also has anyone had any issues with the brightness slightly fading in and out, ie brightness going up and down?? I have checked the settings, and adaptive brightness is on, however, the lighting in the room is constantly the same and never changes, i have kept it on a stand and monitored it, and it does fade in and out/up and down slightly. Its very odd.
Is this a bug within the OS?
I have even turned off the adaptive brightness and it still does the same?
Was just curious if anyone else had experienced this?
I would also like to remove the bottom nav bar as it is constantly there and really annoying!!
Is there a way to do this, i wish that black bar was transparent, i would then have an actual 10.1" tablet, not a 9.7" one!! Is there a way?
Looks like and Awesome guide, would love to get these issues sorted, and root, but not sure if my experience would be adequet?, some things are a little bit over my head.?

Logoutt said:
Hello, I have just rooted my new Fire with the offline method, I have followed all the steps for the newbie listed here but I got stucked at 5) point,
I read couple of times the topics about flashfire and Xposed but I really can't understand some things:
What exactly is Flashfire? Is it an app? Do I need it to upgrade the system?
In order to work FF needs Xposed? Or not?
Why Xposed could be useful on this Fire HD 10?
Last question, in the FF and Xposed topic is written that I have to dd my img?! And then root again?!
I am so sorry for my disability.... Is there any other clear guide to install Xposed and Flashfire? And something that explain why these tools are useful and what aim they pursue
Thank you everyone for this great guides about fire HD btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will give it a try before the experts weigh in.
FlashFire is an app. The 2017 Fire HD 10 has a locked bootloader and so far there is no way to install custom recovery. So FlashFire is the only way easy way to backup/upgrade OS.
FlashFire checks date to see when it's valid. If you use v0.24, you need to hack the date. My impression is v0.51 also needs it but I'm not certain. This can be done either by changing the system date or install Xposed with per-app-hack. This is covered in the linked post.
DD is an alternative. It's a command line. If you are comfortable with it, you don't need FF for backup.

bibikalka said:
Sorry, it was a bit confusing! You should be using this file (it's linked to in the XDA post):
http://rootjunkysdl.com/files/Amazon Fire 5th gen/SuperTool/AmazonFire5thGenSuperTool.zip
Once you unpack, you can start the bat script (under windows), and then it'll have option 2 which will install all Play Store components.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, one more question for you. If we use the FF v0.51 you provided, do we still need date hack? If not, will it work without Xposed?
Thanks

Is there any guide like this for the 8th Gen(2018) or does this apply?

Just wanted to ask again if there is a definative way to get rid of the bottom nav bar? Really hate that black bar that takes away a portion of the screen, would be really nice if there was a way that it could be made trasparent, and works with the fire 10.1 (2017) model. Also want to keep everything stock.

fleebleflam said:
I have just purchased a fire HD 10, i am also wanting to root, and install gplay but haven't rooted for a while, i have actually asked Amazon for a return label as i was extremely dissapointed with the poxy adds for the screensaver/lockscreen! I wish Amazon would word things correctly! "With offers" = With ADDS!!! "Without offers" = "Without ADDS"
Other than paying Amazon £10! is there a way to remove them?? Very curious to find out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can call Amazon, or start a web chat with them, and tell them this device is a gift for young child, and some of those ads shows on lock screen are not appropriate for kids. then they will remove all the lock screen ads for you. you also can go to your amazon account to unsbscribe those offers, it will cost you some money. or, you can find in here some guide to help you remove the ads in lock screen. good luck, mate!

28mufields said:
You can call Amazon, or start a web chat with them, and tell them this device is a gift for young child, and some of those ads shows on lock screen are not appropriate for kids. then they will remove all the lock screen ads for you. you also can go to your amazon account to unsbscribe those offers, it will cost you some money. or, you can find in here some guide to help you remove the ads in lock screen. good luck, mate!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been very fortunate to get the adds removed by Amazon, a manager gave me a courtesy call and said they would remove them for me for free!
So that's the adds sorted, i'm more concerned about the bottom nav bar its so frustrating just being there permanently! It's now a 9.7" tablet not a 10.1"!!
Is there a way to make it transparent, or to maybe swipe up from the bottom when you need it?
Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.?

playerpatrick said:
Is there any guide like this for the 8th Gen(2018) or does this apply?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I search on Amazon, only the 2017 7th gen Fire HD 10 will show up. Where do you see the 8th Gen 2018?

There is no 8th gen 10.1" tablet. Amazon presently, only sell the 2017 10.1" model that is the latest one. I just purchased one last week, and i also thought there was a 2018 10.1" model. But there isn't until Amazon release another one.
The latest 2018 model is only the 8" model.

I have completed the setup of the tablet and updated the first post.

HipStreet Phantom 2 10" tablet

I'm trying to revive a seriously slow & buggy tablet from the draw to run just 1 app for my cctv when in the garage. Anyways, It's running Android 6.0 but its shocking slow & it wont update google play services. So, I'm looking for a custom rom, twrp & root for this tablet. I've been googling for 2 days & when I find a website, like tweakdroid or gofirmware which seems to have an identical website under different URLs who's download links just sends me in an infinite loop of clicking, Tweakdroid sends me to download stuff, but the links are always dead or it tells me to download something which like twrp, but I'm asked to select the make, which isn't displayed.
I've got all kinds of tablets, even tablets that are generically basic & old that have twrp & custom roms available. So why can't I find anything for this? So help needed

VsUK said:
I've got all kinds of tablets, even tablets that are generically basic & old that have twrp & custom roms available. So why can't I find anything for this? So help needed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IMO you should ask this question to developers of TWRP and/or Custom ROM ( like LineageOS ).