[Firefly] [ROCKCHIP] 3.5-Month UPDATE: Firefly ITX-3588J (Rockchip RK3588) "Deskphone" WORKS! Almost. - General Topics

After 3.5 months of trial and error, unresponsive communities, ups and down, spending $75 on a video card that may be proving unnecessary ... I finally present to you - an almost fully-working Firefly ITX-3588J Dual-Boot Android/Linux ARM Machine.
WHAT IS IT?
The Firefly ITX-3588J is a Mini-ITX - small PC form-factor - "single-board computer" that was released earlier this year by the Chinese manufacturer Firefly, aka. T-Chip Intelligent Technology Co. Ltd.. It features the Rockchip RK3588 (hence the name) ARM system-on-chip (SoC) in a package that adduces many different kinds of ports including a PCI Express x4 slot, multiple HDMI video outs that go to the on-chip Mali GPU, and an M.2 that can be used in theory to add a telephone network card, making it a mini-desktop and smartphone all in one.
I got one because I saw it as an opportunity to for once have an easily-transportable low-energy consumption system that would be both an alternative to x86 and also not the Mac while still offering reasonable performance even if far from top-of-the-line - and ideally, it'd be great if more such boards come later because other ARM SBC boards tend to be both more limited and also very awkward with their cables. This is the only one I'm aware of, besides certain Raspberry Pi breakout boards like the Turing Pi, that can use a standard PC case.
But getting it to work, on the other hand, proved to be MUCH more diifficult because while the vendors offered a choice between Android 12 and Ubuntu 20.04 operating systems, I realized I needed both: I wanted access to both software ecosystems on the same machine, and was determined to get that to happen. And I want to say that within the last few days I have finally come quite close to achieving this dream in full.
WHAT DOES IT DO NOW?
Right now, the machine dual-boots Android 12 and Ubuntu 20.04 using the vendor-provided patched 5.10.66 Linux kernel source tree, with the user-space data of both OSes stored on a SATA SSD hard disk instead of the embedded eMMC. Boot selection is possible on startup simply by hitting "Ctrl+C" and typing the appropriate command to select the Ubuntu OS; otherwise, Android 12 boots by default. All this happens by video console on U-Boot with no serial port requirement, making it function as a proper stand-alone dual-boot ARM PC.
WHAT IS STILL TO BE DONE?
Graphics support on Ubuntu 20.04. No idea why this isn't working even with the provided kernel and driver packages. Text console over monitor works fine, though.
WHAT DID IT TAKE TO MAKE IT GO?
In retrospect, it's not really all that difficult. The most difficult part was just figuring everything out because there was very little comprehensive documentation given beyond how to simply load the images, and I had before this point zero real experience actually piecing together an Android system on a mobile/embedded-style board and machine. One thing that's a casualty is the stock Ubuntu image; it turned out to be much more fruitful to simply install the system to the hard drive via a procedure analogous to, albeit having to be arranged manually, what a typical installer would do, i.e. setting up and using APT to load the whole Ubuntu system from the Internet over wi-fi with the only vendor-adulterated component being the kernel and Mali graphics drivers because Valhall, nor even the whole RK3588, is currently mainlined in the Linux kernel system.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
The machine:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Running Android:
Ubuntu (no graphics yet!):

@Shimmy99 Would you please offer the procedure you used to make the board boot from SATA SSD?
That would be greatly apprecaited. I have a similar board and I have been interested in installing Android on a SATA SSD but the vendors don't respond to messages and there is very little information on their forum.
Thank you

qwestmogul2012 said:
@Shimmy99 Would you please offer the procedure you used to make the board boot from SATA SSD?
That would be greatly apprecaited. I have a similar board and I have been interested in installing Android on a SATA SSD but the vendors don't respond to messages and there is very little information on their forum.
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mmm. I don't have a direct boot from SSD possible yet. Getting it to this stage has required coding work on the provided U-Boot and I would share a source pack to my github but it will take more to get direct SATA boot because it crashes when the U-Boot is compiled with those config options enabled for some reason. My focus mostly was on getting graphical console on the U-Boot so that there is not need to use the serial debug simply to switch OSes ). The way it works currently is that the kernels for both Android and Ubuntu are loaded to the eMMC, then the userdata / rootfs are loaded to the SSD. That said, I could try to play with that for sure.

It would really be nice if there was an easy way to install OS on SSD drive,that would be a massive upgrade from the measly 128GB EMMC.
By the way I don't know if you have already figured this out but there is an easy way to install GAPPS without using the tedious method you used.
You simply patch boot.img with Magisk then use ADB to install it back to the unit. From there you can use Magisk to install Magisk GAPPS.
For the life of me I can't seem to figure out how to install GPS/GNSS drivers for Android. The stock firmwares provided by the vendor have GPS drivers but those stock firmware have 1920x1080 resolution whereas I want to use 3840x2160 screen.
One way of dealing with that is editing build.prop file in vendor folder which works but then the unit won't boot past boot screen when a patched boot.img is installed. so it is sort of catch 22.

qwestmogul2012 said:
It would really be nice if there was an easy way to install OS on SSD drive,that would be a massive upgrade from the measly 128GB EMMC.
By the way I don't know if you have already figured this out but there is an easy way to install GAPPS without using the tedious method you used.
You simply patch boot.img with Magisk then use ADB to install it back to the unit. From there you can use Magisk to install Magisk GAPPS.
For the life of me I can't seem to figure out how to install GPS/GNSS drivers for Android. The stock firmwares provided by the vendor have GPS drivers but those stock firmware have 1920x1080 resolution whereas I want to use 3840x2160 screen.
One way of dealing with that is editing build.prop file in vendor folder which works but then the unit won't boot past boot screen when a patched boot.img is installed. so it is sort of catch 22.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Yes. I am currently working on trying to build up a software system that will enable proper booting from SSD "due to popular demand" from here (basically trying to modify the provided "RK U-Boot" and/or combine it with GRUB), however my progress has been set back after having lost the FIQ serial debug converter for my board and needing to get a new one. Also, I didn't know about that trick with Magisk, thanks! And when you say "won't boot past boot screen", what do you mean? Do you have any logs from the USB or from the FIQ serial stream for when that happens?

After the patched boot file is loaded back into the unit using ADB,the unit simply shows Firefly logo,the screen goes black then it shows the same logo,it never goes past that logo.
In other words I want a unit that has a patched boot file so that I can root it with Magisk and also have 4K resolution which only attainable by editing the build.prop file.
The root that is already in the stock firmware is inadequate because they lack SU binaries and therefore most apps that require root permission don't work effectively.
I have no way of generating logs,I don't have a serial debugger.
My goal is to have a simple Android system that I can install in my car with 4K portable screens and GPS.
I have tried the Android radios being sold out there and don't meet my needs for a system that can use 4K screens.They are still stuck in 1920x1080 or below resolution,not to mention that they can't play 4K video files without stuttering or freezing. They also lack storage that can store those large files.

qwestmogul2012 said:
After the patched boot file is loaded back into the unit using ADB,the unit simply shows Firefly logo,the screen goes black then it shows the same logo,it never goes past that logo.
In other words I want a unit that has a patched boot file so that I can root it with Magisk and also have 4K resolution which only attainable by editing the build.prop file.
The root that is already in the stock firmware is inadequate because they lack SU binaries and therefore most apps that require root permission don't work effectively.
I have no way of generating logs,I don't have a serial debugger.
My goal is to have a simple Android system that I can install in my car with 4K portable screens and GPS.
I have tried the Android radios being sold out there and don't meet my needs for a system that can use 4K screens.They are still stuck in 1920x1080 or below resolution,not to mention that they can't play 4K video files without stuttering or freezing. They also lack storage that can store those large files.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, that is some really interesting use of this device. Are you able to capture anything via the debug serial interface? (TTL serial, port is called "DEBUG" on the board, it appears to be the preferred serial interface for this processor.) If you don't have a suitable TTL->USB converter, you might want to get one. It must be able to support 1500000 baud, though, so be careful to check. Firefly offers one, though I lost mine as I mentioned and I had to get another, though a different one so I can mount it permanently in the case and break out a back-of-the-case port.
If you can capture anything via the TTL serial line, that would be great. That should give you some idea of what it's choking on. Send me that just so I can think about it while I'm waiting on this.

I will definitely order one.I never thought I would hit such a roadblock.I have edited various kind of Android roms successfully.This one from Firefly though is something else.I suppose that is what happens when they make their work not open source.
By the way do you know how to unpack super.img? the unpack script provide does not recognize super.img even if I change the name to update.img

qwestmogul2012 said:
I will definitely order one.I never thought I would hit such a roadblock.I have edited various kind of Android roms successfully.This one from Firefly though is something else.I suppose that is what happens when they make their work not open source.
By the way do you know how to unpack super.img? the unpack script provide does not recognize super.img even if I change the name to update.img
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for not responding sooner but I was diligently cracking away at this thing VERY much actually ... !!!
Ah yes, I think though I'm pretty close to getting it to work; most of the work so far has been in trying just to figure out how everything works given documentation is scant and I had never, ever worked with Android or anything else at this level before!
Very little of the material is not opensource - some of the tools required to generate the rockchip images does not appear to be and there are some binary-blob kernel drivers, but a LOT more than one thinks is; you just have to ask Firefly for the "board SDK" and they will provide on request. Other than what I mentioned, the code in there is pretty much all licensed under GPL (hence why they have to give you that code, given they've made kernel modifications to support the RK3588 - apparently mainstream support is coming along but is still not primetime yet).
Nonetheless, I see you've unpacked the Android image ROM, so perhaps you already have that - if so, great. Hence let's get to it (note maybe you know some of this already but I also want to make this post useful for as many people as possible): super.img - which I'm actually playing with right now - is not Firefly magic, but is generic Android and has been mentioned before on this forum if you search for "super.img" here. It's a "super partition" that contains partitions.
Editing system.img inside super.img and flashing our modifications
I'm trying to modify my system.img (/system/build.prop) to include support for multi users. After struggling a lot, I've succeeded following your guide (that's an awesome work btw) to unpack, mount, modify, umount and repack super.img. Then...
forum.xda-developers.com
To unpack it you need to grab OTA Tools:
[GUIDE] OTA Tools LPUnpack
Please see this URL https://android.googlesource.com/platform/build.git/+/eec4a7cba4face3370acb6293ab357879920b467 and this for more information. Hi everyone. I'm surprised I havent seen a thread about ota tools yet and lpunpack. This zip file...
forum.xda-developers.com
and the way to do this is you should first use the program simg2img, which actually ships with Ubuntu as a package of the same name I believe. Suppose you're in the Linux terminal and working in the directory containing super.img. Create (if you haven't already) a directory to unpack it, e.g.
Code:
mkdir super_unpack
Then use simg2img to get a "raw" version:
Code:
simg2img super.img super.img.raw
then finally use the OTATools (replace the string "/path/to/otatools" with whatever, or put them on your PATH, or ...)
Code:
/path/to/otatools/lpunpack super.img.raw super_unpack/
and now you should have it fully unrolled into smaller .img files which will ACTUALLY mount. In particular, I needed this because product.img specifically seems to be the best place to load GApps into - they will both come up on first Android boot and they will be retained if you do an Android system reset ("reset to factory defaults").
Now REPACKING super.img ... that's the fun part!

I had actually managed to find the instructions to unpack the super.img and also managed to mount vendor.img which is where I wanted to make changes in modifying the build.prop file.
After repacking the super.img and flashing it using fastboot the Android did not boot.
I also managed to incorporate the super.img to a ROM but the Android did not boot as well.
My thinking is that Android 12 being a Dynamic partitioned rom does not allow any modification in the root system and that is why I have not had success making the Android boot.
It used to be so easy to do that on Android 10 but Android 11 and 12 are not.
Well,if someone manages to do it,I hope to understand how they did it.
As of now I am pretty much stuck with a vanilla rom which is very disconcerting considering how expensive the ITX-3588J is.
By the way I already have SDK which I have been using to make roms.
Please let me know if you manage to boot the Android using a repacked super.img
As always I am very grateful for your assistance. Happy Ney Year!

qwestmogul2012 said:
I had actually managed to find the instructions to unpack the super.img and also managed to mount vendor.img which is where I wanted to make changes in modifying the build.prop file.
After repacking the super.img and flashing it using fastboot the Android did not boot.
I also managed to incorporate the super.img to a ROM but the Android did not boot as well.
My thinking is that Android 12 being a Dynamic partitioned rom does not allow any modification in the root system and that is why I have not had success making the Android boot.
It used to be so easy to do that on Android 10 but Android 11 and 12 are not.
Well,if someone manages to do it,I hope to understand how they did it.
As of now I am pretty much stuck with a vanilla rom which is very disconcerting considering how expensive the ITX-3588J is.
By the way I already have SDK which I have been using to make roms.
Please let me know if you manage to boot the Android using a repacked super.img
As always I am very grateful for your assistance. Happy Ney Year!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I did not see any mention about build.prop, though maybe you dropped that on another thread that wasn't in my notifications anymore.
You say the "Android did not boot". Do you have a adb dump? Do you have a serial (UART) debug dump (i.e. through the FIQ port)? Also, how are you repacking super.img? It is a tricky process as I mentioned at the end.

I did mention build.prop editing on my second comment of this thread.I initially tried to use root explorer file manager,that did not work.Then attempted to pull file from the system using ADB,edited it on my computer then pushed the edited file back to the system.That did not work either.
That is when I resorted to trying to edit it by unpacking the super.img.
I am still waiting to receive USB SERIAL debugger.
As for how I unpacked and repacked the super.img I used the instructions on the thread on this link
Editing system.img inside super.img and flashing our modifications
I'm trying to modify my system.img (/system/build.prop) to include support for multi users. After struggling a lot, I've succeeded following your guide (that's an awesome work btw) to unpack, mount, modify, umount and repack super.img. Then...
forum.xda-developers.com

Maybe this helps: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/linux-porting-native-linux-to-galaxy-note9.3936077/
Somebody ported Linux to the Galaxy Note 9.

Related

Porting Tips

This thread covers what I have learned about porting. When possible, I'll include links.
This post primarily applies to Samsung devices, although parts can also be used by other manufacturer's devices.
Get the stock firmware for your devices. This step is very important. Besides needing it to reset your device, you will need the boot and recovery images that should be in the archive file.
Follow Cyanogenmod's Porting page.
Use Heimdall to get the partition table
Get the block size by taking the number of blocks from the pit file, and then dividing the size of the storage card by that. Round to the nearest power of 2. (E.g., 524 -> 512).
Use unpackbootimg to get the files in the boot and recovery images
Get the kernel building
Use PRODUCT_COPY_FILES to copy files to specific locations. It needs to be in a device_*.mk file. Use this for the initrc's, and anything else that needs to be in the recovery (e.g., kernel modules). Keep in mind that the only variables the mk file knows about are the ones you tell it about.
At this point, you may or may not have a booting recovery. In the event that you cannot boot into the recovery (e..g, it reboots immediately upon attempting to enter the recovery), try looking at the stock recovery files (especially the ramdisk files), and see what the differences are between it and your recovery image. Again, unpackbootimg is helpful.
As a side note, I'm trying to port Cyanogenmod to the Tab 3 7.0 without using anyone else's source. Right now, I'm stuck on (6), which I'm still going through. I'll try to remember to update this post as I learn new things.
Build Environment
I'm currently using Fedora Rawhide -- which doesn't have java 1.6 or 1.7. For building the recoveries, it does not seem to matter.
That said, building using just the "mka" command will error out, as Cyanogenmod 11 is not able to be built under java 1.8.
As such, my recommendation is to use an arch installation and the systemd-nspawn command for java 1.7 (also, see the AUR for older java packages).

Looking for a complete/real Linux on my Nexus 5

Hello everybody,
I've been trying to get a complete Linux (for example Debian or Ubuntu) on my old Nexus 5 (NOT Ubuntu-Touch). All the Linux commands ("sudo" etc.) should work and I need to install Python.
Since I would like to use the Nexus 5 only for network stuff and bots at home, I don't really need Android anymore on the device.
I have no additional equipment (for exemple Bluetooth keyboard / mouse or USB to HDMI adapter) and I would prefere not buy any equipment.
Windows 10 would be enough as well on the Nexus 5 (I read it should work with some Android devices).
I got TWRP recovery on the phone.
What I've tried so far:
1.
The Maru ROM (Android + Linux parallel running). However, for the first configuration on the Linux-Desktop it seems like I need an adapter + Bluetooth keyboard & mouse, since the first configuration has to be done on the desktop
But have no corresponding periphery.
After the initial configuration of the Linux Desktop/Interface, via USB to HDMI adapter, you can access the Linux system on the Nexus 5 via SSH or VNC.
Apparently it's also possible to do the first configuration of the Linux interface via VNC. But I have not succeeded. I've followed various instructions and tried from Android by using terminal emulator to acces the parallel running Linux. VNC Viewer Apps were also used. Everything did not work out. Either there were error messages that the system is not "listening" on the port or that the access was denied. Is there an idiot-safe step by step guide for this?
2.
Next I flashed "[NEXUS 5][N7.1.2] - Pure Nexus"
I tried to to configur the terminal emulator and Termux with BusyBox and the "sudo installer app" to behave as if the terminal would be a real Linux. I also failed (couldn't get sudo command and other commands to work).
3.
Finally, I've used the "Complete Linux Installer" app. However, it turned out that my kernel does not support "loop device" (which is a prerequisite). So I tested the Franco Kernel and another custom kernel (name forgotten), which also did not work. I haven't found a custom kernel which is explicit "loop device" supported.
What ROM / Kerel Combo is required to use "Complete Linux Installer"?
Since I need no Android it would be the simplest thing to flash Linux (or Win10) with TWRP on to the Nexus 5. Is there some pure Linux ROM for the N5?
Otherwise an idiot-safe step by step guide for the N5 for the method 1 (Maru ROM via VNC without HDMI adapter), or for the method 3 ("Complete Linux Installer") would be great!
If someone has a full functional Linux or Win10 on the Nexus 5 (without additional peripherals) please report! Thanks in advance!
really no one an idea?
A ROM/Kernel Combination for the Nexus 5 with "Loop Device" support would be enough! (see 3. "Complete Linux Installer")
playerkirk1 said:
The only way I could imagine installing Ubuntu or any form of Linux based OS other than android would involve using EFIDroid, which isn't hard to install at all.
Here's the link to that.
I'd imagine you'd have to find a way to efi boot a version of Ubuntu arm or Debian arm, because the Nexus 5 is an arm device. As for Windows 10, IIRC Microsoft still hasn't released Windows 10 arm out yet, so we can't find out if we can port it back to arm32 or lower end Snapdragon devices like the Nexus 5.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok nice thx! I'll try it with EFIDroid.
Unfortunately I have not much time most recently... So it will have to wait.
I'll report if I manage to run any Linux version on the N5.
One more Question:
Is it easy to find an arm version of Debian or Ubuntu? Haven't searched yet.
Why use EFIDroid?
I built Gentoo linux on my htc hd2 a yaer ago (and lost the image a few weeks ago). It's not really hard to install a full native linux system on your phone and boot to it DIRECTLY (without android).
All you need is
a custom kernel with support for loop devices (may need some changes later for the display, or some dirty hacks)
a base system for gentoo and some linux knowledge
creating a loopback device and using it for the system storage
working from within android in the beginning on the loopback device, until the base system is installed, configured, bootable and has SSH ENABLED via ethernet, with custom ip address (this is tricky, as it's the only way to use the phone before a gui is installed)
working from the pc using ssh, installing all needed packages
failing too many times until everything works
Edit: while installing the system, you must maintain an ssh connection via usb, as i said earlier, and to reach the internet, you must use iptables from the host pc to share the connection and configure your phone to get to the internet using the host.
As i said, i had done it in the past for the HTC HD2, but never posted it (due to ****ty internet connection). I had done all the system compiling directly on the HD2. On such a slow device (1ghz single core, 512mb ram, class 4 sd card) it took about 2 weeks for the GUI to be working.
What i did later was take the same base system and run it on the HTC M8. while it works, display never worked correctly. I had to use a program i compiled to refresh the screen all the time, which consumed cpu quickly.
Anyway, it can be done on any phone. There's no such thing as impossible.
A shot of the end result gui on hd2 (i know, horrible gui and wtf is that resolution )
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
tl;dr: Install Gentoo linux
@ playerkirk1
Ok thanks. Maybe this way leads to a solution for me.
@ gilbert32
Impressive! That seems to me like pretty advanced work! I'm afraid my Linux knowledge is fare under yours...
But like I thought, it's possible! Thanks for sharing!
gilbert32 said:
a custom kernel with support for loop devices (may need some changes later for the display, or some dirty hacks)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So again it depends on the custom Kernel with loop device suport. I couldn't find one explicitly supporting "loop device" for the N5.
If I had, I would have used the "complete Linux installer" app.
(Check out 3. on my first post)
shomu said:
So again it depends on the custom Kernel with loop device suport. I couldn't find one explicitly supporting "loop device" for the N5.
If I had, I would have used the "complete Linux installer" app.
(Check out 3. on my first post)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not that hard to get it working
Should be about downloading the source code of any kernel you want to use, make menuconfig, adding loop device support and compiling the kernel. it's about 5-6 commands.
I honestly didn't know this was even possible, but this is amazing. I just thought you'd need EFIDroid and an ISO to boot off of, but that seems way too complicated to do reliably. I'll definitely try this myself because it sounds awesome. Thank you, you rock!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it is very possible. In the old days before android (where developers used to port linux to windows mobile devices, using HaRet), it was about compiling a working kernel, adding a ramdisk that prepares the loop device and mounts it, then changing the root to the loop device. In another way, to achieve it on a new phone:
Build the os for your phone, or install it. You must have a working loop device in the end, containing the root filesystem
Create the init file to use with the ramdisk later
compile a kernel that supports all features required by the OS
package the ramdisk and kernel into a bootable image, that you can fastboot boot or flash
On The M8, This is what happens:
Bootloader boots boot.img. I use fastboot boot boot.img since i don't want to override my boot image
kernel boots and runs my init. Which is a series of shell commands.
The commands mount the required partitions, then mount the loopback device to somelocation
init calls for switch_root, which turns somelocation into the new root filesystem, and launches the appropriate init script (IIRC /sbin/init in gentoo)
the new init starts its work, calls for OpenRC, etc etc etc
As i said before, i got it booting on the HTC M8 by grabbing a working boot image for the device, and modifying the ramdisk to use scripts for the HD2. I had modified those scripts to match the M8 requirements, then repackaged the image and voila. If i still had my working image, i would've uploaded it for you and tried modifying the needed files.
If you get the needed kernel working, i will help you with the next steps
and just another pic i found.
gilbert32 said:
It's not that hard to get it working
Should be about downloading the source code of any kernel you want to use, make menuconfig, adding loop device support and compiling the kernel. it's about 5-6 commands.
Yes, it is very possible. In the old days before android (where developers used to port linux to windows mobile devices, using HaRet), it was about compiling a working kernel, adding a ramdisk that prepares the loop device and mounts it, then changing the root to the loop device. In another way, to achieve it on a new phone:
Build the os for your phone, or install it. You must have a working loop device in the end, containing the root filesystem
Create the init file to use with the ramdisk later
compile a kernel that supports all features required by the OS
package the ramdisk and kernel into a bootable image, that you can fastboot boot or flash
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hm..ok, but I must say, I never compiled a kernel...
I got kind of "advanced" knowledge about android compared to normal "Smartphone users", but I'm definitely no developer!
So unfortunately compiling things is beyond my skills. I think I could do it with a step-by-step-tutorial, but I guess my request is too specific to find a fitting tutorial.
When it comes to Linux, I know some basics about the system and some basic commands. But usually when I'm doing stuff with Linux I use tutorials as well.
I have much more experience with Windows, html, css and some java...
So again, for everything that has to be done with Linux, I need an easy tutorial...
I appreciate your trying to help me, but unfortunately i must say it's way too advanced for me. without a detailed how-to, I will not be able to do this...
gilbert32 said:
and just another pic i found.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm feeling a bit ambitious and wanted to try something, just want to know if it's been done before.
So I want to use my other phone - Samsung Galaxy Nexus - as a home server (FTP, p2p for start and maybe some light home automation later if everything works well).
So there is a patch for the GNex kernel that allows for phone charging and OTG at the same time. Also, I would need to patch in the loop back into the kernel so I wanted to know if Gento would be able to access my HDD hooked on OTG and how the drivers work in general on Gento and if it is worth the hassle getting it from Android to Gento. Also, I plan to VNC into the phone so display drivers aren't needed to work 100%.
Opinions?
Just install Sailfish OS. It's Linux with just a modified GUI for phones.
Here you can get the latest images, instructions, help (if you need) and info about all the various things https://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=99377
Then take a look at this thread https://talk.maemo.org/showthread.php?t=98882
this is a link to working arch linux chroot https://github.com/Preflex/easy-chroot/releases/tag/0.0.2
here is a pic from my setup
Now someone made a patch for wayland to open in landscape mode. here it is https://openrepos.net/content/elros34/qxcompositor
And here is also ubuntu chroot, which works with that patch https://github.com/elros34/sailfish_ubu_chroot
I moved away from android long ago. Because i want my privacy back from google. Now i do not use anything from google except youtube (without google account)
ILA said:
I'm feeling a bit ambitious and wanted to try something, just want to know if it's been done before.
So I want to use my other phone - Samsung Galaxy Nexus - as a home server (FTP, p2p for start and maybe some light home automation later if everything works well).
So there is a patch for the GNex kernel that allows for phone charging and OTG at the same time. Also, I would need to patch in the loop back into the kernel so I wanted to know if Gento would be able to access my HDD hooked on OTG and how the drivers work in general on Gento and if it is worth the hassle getting it from Android to Gento. Also, I plan to VNC into the phone so display drivers aren't needed to work 100%.
Opinions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can get the HDD to work inside android, it will work inside Gentoo. As long as you can mount the HDD inside android it should be possible. And you really don't need android to mount it, just look for the dmesg and see if it's detected, or look for it in /dev/sdxx. If it works, then don't forget to install the specific HDD filesystem support in Gentoo.
The easiest way is Linux deploy in the Google play store, u have the option to install Ubuntu, Debian, Kali, etc. Also with the option of selecting your GUI such as KDE, lxde, etc. U can also chose to build it as an image or use an sdcard partition if you're advanced which is the best option. Most Android devices can easily support running Linux IMO, there hasn't been a device I haven't got it not running on, with the exception of the ones u can't root lol. Give it a try, you'll see what in talking about, as for the vnc use juice SSH on the play store, that's my favorite, also helps to install the hackers keyboard from the play store too. Depending on the internet it should take u less than 30 minutes to get Linux up and running
Sailfish OS (pretty darn good), Plasma-Mobile (not very efficient), and PostmarketOS (least efficient) are good alternatives
there is shortly to be some work done by wicket in my home community of Maemo ...
to get Maemo Leste OS running on the nexus 5 ...
I suggest patience.
it will happen...there are just the n9 and n900 to come first...(which are coming along nicely thus far ..)
I myself am looking forward to having Leste on both my n900's and Nexus 5's...
Leste for the nexus 5 should progress quite rapidly once work begins, considering the nexus 5 is the perfect candidate in compare with other devices.
So you may wish to keep an eyeball on the Maemo Leste OS project
shomu said:
really no one an idea?
A ROM/Kernel Combination for the Nexus 5 with "Loop Device" support would be enough! (see 3. "Complete Linux Installer")
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
KDE Plasma
Sailfish OS if you can figure out how to install manjaro
Ubuntu Touch with dock
Come on just use Google.

Development Installing GSI by repacking super.img on SM-A127F and SM-A325F (Linux)

repacksuper
===========
Copyleft uluruman 2021-2022
(for LINUX/WSL only)
This is the minimalistic set of tools + a script for Linux for the automated
ground-up repacking and flashing of the Samsung Galaxy super.img, replacing
the stock Android system with something much less intrusive and obtrusive
(e.g. LineageOS). Or just some other GSI (Generic System Image).
Additional included scripts (since v1.1) simplify flashing of stock firmware or
separate image files under Linux using Heimdall.
Theoretically should work for any Samsung A-series phones, and may be even for
some others. Tested on SM-A127F/DSN made in India and Vietnam and SM-A325F/DS
made in India, on Debian Linux 11 x64. There are reports of successful flashing
of SM-A127M, SM-A032M and SM-A226B.
Why this method?
----------------
Repacking of super.img is the only method which allows changing of the phone's
operating system without screwing up the Verified Boot (VB) protection
mechanism. Keeping the VB allows you to be sure that everything besides the
platform was indeed compiled by Samsung and wasn't tampered with, no matter from
where you downloaded your stock firmware.
The other reason is that although there are alternative methods of changing the
OS, for phones with dynamic partitioning and no working version of TWRP
available they may be even more complicated than repacking of super.img
externally by this script.
Requirements
------------
Install the following tools from the official repositories of your Linux distro:
simg2img xz-utils lz4 unzip gzip jq file
Basic instructions
------------------
repacksuper.sh: main script for changing your phone's operating system
heimdall_flash_stock.sh: script for flashing stock firmware under Linux
heimdall_flash.sh: script for flashing any custom image file under Linux
Just run a script without any arguments to see help.
Extra tools used (x64 binaries and sources included)
----------------------------------------------------
GitHub - LonelyFool/lpunpack_and_lpmake: android super.img tools
android super.img tools. Contribute to LonelyFool/lpunpack_and_lpmake development by creating an account on GitHub.
github.com
GitHub - amo13/Heimdall: Heimdall is a cross-platform open-source tool suite used to flash firmware (aka ROMs) onto Samsung Galaxy devices. This is a fork of the original repository with a few crucial pull requests merged.
Heimdall is a cross-platform open-source tool suite used to flash firmware (aka ROMs) onto Samsung Galaxy devices. This is a fork of the original repository with a few crucial pull requests merged....
github.com
Additional notes
----------------
The included binaries for the lpunpack, lpmake and Heimdall were compiled for
the x86_64 architecture. If your PC architecture is different (e.g. x86 32-bit
or ARM) you have to compile these tools yourself. The full source code is
included (or otherwise available on GitHub).
Spoiler: Changelog
0.9: Initial release
0.91: Non-sparse new system is now correctly moved into the super dir
0.91a: Bug in the new system file format checking fixed
0.91b: Better support for spaces in paths
0.92: Added checking for system requirements and an optional parameter for
setting of the final tar archive name.
0.92a: Fixed file ownership issues inside the tar distribution archive
0.93: Added support for SM-A325F. Several minor improvements.
0.94: Added support for gzip-packed GSI images. Packing into .tar is now done
without question if the command line parameter is given. Tar parameter
now can include the full path. Without the full path the default tar
location is now the same as the GSI. Several other minor changes.
1.0: Finally added working native Linux flashing using Heimdall (HUGE thanks
to amo13 and Benjamin Dobell). Two new options: using empty product.img
and silent (non-interactive) mode. Colored text. Bugfixes and minor
changes.
1.01: Option to specify the SUPER partition name manually (needed for flashing
SM-A127F with Heimdall). Now it is possible to place output .img and .tar
files in any directory and give them any name. Text terminology a bit
clarified, help text expanded. Done many internal optimizations,
additional sanity checks and minor changes.
1.02: Support for SM-A032F/M and similar firmwares with non-packed super.img.
Support for firmwares with/without additional partitions. Support for
arbitrary partition group names. Very experimental option to use empty
system_ext.img for additional privacy (applicable to some phone models/
regions). Lots of minor fixes.
1.03: Multiple .img files are now supported in GSI archive files (one of them
should be system.img in that case), e.g. Android AOSP zip files are now
supported directly. The logic of flashing with Heimdall now includes more
complex cases, such as flashing in two steps with a reboot. Unnecessary
code in GZ unpacking removed. Some other small fixes and optimizations.
1.1: New scripts heimdall_flash_stock.sh and heimdall_flash.sh added.
Lots of refactoring in repacksuper.sh (because of that there may be some
bugs left), improved and clarified UI logic, changes in where the files are
now placed (see help for details), direct work with stock Zip firmware
files, lots of minor changes.
1.11: Colored text now should be correctly displayed in almost any shell that
supports it except if it's explicitly disabled with NO_COLOR.
1.11.1: heimdall_flash.sh now can flash Super partitions unconditionally in one
step when using both the -s parameter and manually specifying parition
name (e.g. SUPER for SM-A127F).
1.12: The heimdall_flash_stock.sh script was significantly upgraded with lots of
new features. Now it theoretically allows upgrading of stock firmware
without erasing user data, keeping the GSI and custom recovery, etc.
(although it's not that straightforward, read the help for details).
A couple of fixes in the other scripts.
1.12.1: changed unlz4 to lz4 -d, as some distros don't have the needed symlink
1.13: In repacksuper.sh support added for the Vendor DLKM and ODM DLKM
partitions, as well as the experimental -v option to add or replace Vendor
DLKM with a custom image. A couple of minor fixes.
1.14: Greatly improved logic of heimdall_flash.sh, now it's possible to specify
both or either custom partition name and custom file name, and acquiring
PIT from device is done only when it's needed. Versioning scheme of the
scripts was unified: the script that was updated receives the updated
version number of the whole pack, the rest retain the old numbers.
1.15: up_param_tool.sh script was added: it allows altering of the boot
sequence images (logo, "not official" warning, etc.), as well as the
Recovery and Download internal graphics. Happy hacking, but please pay
attention to the warning displayed after extracting the JPEG files.
A couple of minor fixes in the other scripts.
1.15.1: Bug with failing LZ4 uncompression fixed in repacksuper.sh and
heimdall_flash_stock.sh.
1.15.2: Added the Ctrl+C trap in heimdall_flash_stock.sh, so now the temporarily
renamed files are correctly renamed back in case of flashing being
aborted with Ctrl+C. Upgraded Heimdall with the git pull requests, but
it seems those still do not cure the relatively rare issue when flashing
specific files gets completely stuck at some point.
1.15.3: The "file" tool used to identify PIT files was replaced with direct
reading of the file header as the first method proved to be unreliable.
1.15.4: Fixed a bug in heimdall_flash.sh (missing g flag in sed)
1.15.5: Fixed the compatibility issue with the older LZ4 compressors
1.15.6: Fixed compatibility issues with systems where /bin/sh is Bash, such as
ArchLinux
1.15.7: repacksuper.sh: fixed using the existing "repacksuper" dir as source,
also in this mode you can now specify "-" as new system image to reuse
everything inside the "super" subdir. New experimental -w parameter.
All scripts: the Ctrl+C trap now switched on and off the correct way.
Several other fixes.
1.15.8: Fixed using the heimdall_flash_stock dirs as source for repacksuper.sh.
A couple of other fixes.
1.15.9: heimdall_flash_stock.sh: fixed skipping of duplicate partitions (e.g.
vbmeta) for some shells; fixed upgrade-flashing of Galaxy A32 (default
behavior).
Spoiler: Known issues
During the script run you can see several "Invalid sparse file format at header
magic" warnings, just ignore them.
For some firmware files Heimdall may not work at all (freeze indefinitely or
exit with an error), in that case you have to resort to Odin. In many cases
Heimdall freezes when uploading files for some time, but that does not mean it
is completely frozen, just be patient.
In LineageOS, Dot OS and some other GSIs I tried on SM-127F the touch screen
remains not responsive for about 6 seconds after waking up. The problem is not
present at least with SM-127F/DSN phones made in India, but present at least in
those made in Vietnam. Another problem in the most, if not all, GSIs is that the
MTP USB file transfer does not work (at least on Linux) because of the "wrong"
(Samsung's instead of Google's) default MPT driver used by the kernel.
Both of the aforementioned problems can be solved by installing the fixed and
recompiled kernel.
For the last problem alternative solutions include using apps such as
Warpinator, Syncthing or ftpd.
Spoiler: Food for thought
When choosing a GSI to install I really don't recommend using ones which include
GApps and therefore use any of the Google services. Don't let corporations
gather your data. You bought the phone and from now on it should be all yours,
with all of its data, like a PC in the good old days. You own your device, and
nobody has the right to stick their nose into how you use your phone, gather any
statistics and push you any ads. You always have a choice to turn down
privacy-unfriendly stuff, the price of that "inconvenience" is actually
ridiculous. From my point of view, there is simply no point in using non-stock
systems if they are still littered with the privacy-unfriendly bloatware.
For the step-by-step guide (slightly outdated) read this and this post. Also be sure to read this post concerning the importance of optics.img. Concerning the up_param_tool.sh be sure to read this post.
The included binaries for the lpunpack, lpmake and Heimdall were compiled for the x86_64 architecture. If your PC architecture is different (e.g. x86 32-bit or ARM) you have to compile these tools yourself. The full source code is included (or otherwise available on GitHub).
Latest stable combinations of stock firmware and LineageOS (updated February 5, 2023):
SM-A127F: A127FXXU7BVI4 + LineageOS 20.0-td 20230115 arm64 bvS
SM-A325F: A325FXXU2CVK3+ LineageOS 20.0-td 20230115 arm64 bvS
Some recommendations (updated February 5, 2023):
If you are a newbie and don't know how to do unlock the bootloader and other such stuff, here is a good guide by LAST_krypton (follow the "Unlocking the booloader" section) or a shorter guide by cldkrs.
First flash the phone with the whole set of stock firmware using the heimdall_flash_stock.sh (Linux only) script with the -d parameter: the latter forces flashing the unsafe partitions, which are needed for complete re-flashing.
If you're on Windows use Odin instead. Although there is a "leaked" Linux version of Odin, it's still closed-source (of course), so I don't recommend using it on your main Linux PC. For using the Windows version of Odin on Linux you have to either use Windows in QEMU (tested and works) or probably Wine (untested). When using QEMU remember to add the SUBSYSTEM=="usb", ATTRS{idVendor}=="04e8", ATTRS{idProduct}=="685d", MODE:="0666" line to the udev rules (e.g. /etc/udev/rules.d/30-qemu.rules) to enable the write access to the phone.
Sometimes Heimdall cannot flash the stock firmware and gets stuck at some particular file. Although you can successfully flash such a firmware using Odin, I recommend to better to find another firmware, may be one release older, because that may indicate some sort of incompatibility with your particular version of the phone.
The stock firmware comes in different revision numbers (also known as the baseband version), which are upgraded about once a year. Generally it should be beneficial to use the latest revision, but note that once you have upgraded it to a later revision there is no way back (at least known to me). In case you want to experiment with flashing of special kernels and other flavors provided by the XDA developers, if possible, you should probably stick to the very first revision.
If you already have the bootloader unlocked (OEM unlock) then after flashing the stock firmware there is no need to set up the Android, just go straight into the download mode again and flash the repacked super.img.
When downloading LineageOS or any other GSI select the normal arm64 bvS version, not vndklite version.
After flashing the OS go into the Recovery mode (hold volume up and power when rebooting) straight away and do the Factory reset. If you cannot get into the Recovery mode be sure to connect the USB cable before trying to.
If flashing with Heimdall completely freezes at some point make sure you've downloaded and repacked the correct arm64 b or a/b GSI and not arm and not a or a-only variant. If "sw rev check fail" message appears on the screen at some point just ignore it.
You can forcefully reboot your phone at any time, even if it seems bricked, by holding the volume down and power buttons for several seconds.
To upgrade your system to the recent version of the same OS just repackage it again using the same script and flash it normally. If the phone does not boot, get into the Recovery mode and try wiping the Cache partition (all your apps and settings should remain intact).
Most probably you don't need TWRP or any other 3rd party recovery tool at all, as the stock recovery tool works fine for just the factory reset after flashing the super file.
Try to avoid using Magisk if you just want to install another OS and nothing else. It is also not needed for LineageOS bvS version as it already has the su utility integrated, you just need to install the additional Superuser app by Pierre-Hugues HUSSON from the F-Droid store (although it's very old it works just fine).
It's possible that SM-127F/DSN internally is not A12 but actually M12, at least most of the tools and kernels made for M12 work on SM-127F/DSN while those made specifically for SM-125 and even other SM-127 versions do not. Therefore you can find more relevant info and tools in the corresponding XDA thread (my script is still remains relevant though).
I should test this for a127f
Bugs fixed: v0.91 & v0.91a
Bug fixed: v0.91b
Added the "file" utility to the list of requirements, updated readme.txt.
Thanks A LOT, this works! I am finally able to run LineageOS on my phone!
For Windows 10+ users: WSL runs this script just fine with a few additional steps.
1. Install WSL 2 and any Linux distribution from Microsoft Store
2. Run the distribution to finish setup
3. Install the required packages from the post (sudo apt install for Ubuntu/Debian)
4. Shift + Right Click in the folder where you have the script, the AP and the GSI packages
5. Open Linux shell there
6. Unpack & run script as stated in its help
Voila!
Wow ! Great job! I want to try it, but i'm getting many "Invalid sparse file format at header magic" while running the script, is it OK to flah the super.tar anyway?
jadfa said:
Wow ! Great job! I want to try it, but i'm getting many "Invalid sparse file format at header magic" while running the script, is it OK to flah the super.tar anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is totally OK
jadfa said:
Wow ! Great job! I want to try it, but i'm getting many "Invalid sparse file format at header magic" while running the script, is it OK to flah the super.tar anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it is fine. These are just warnings produced by lpmake, they can not be suppressed. I could only suppress all the stdout/stderr from lpmake but it's no good in case of more serious warnings.
Updated to v0.92 with a couple of minor improvements.
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"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
What should I do next with the raw file?
"Unknown super file format" is this how it should be?
ANDARXapi said:
View attachment 5490897What should I do next with the raw file?
"Unknown super file format" is this how it should be?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course not. The format of each file is checked using the "file" utility, it should return the string "Android super image". Try to run file /home/toor/APfilles/super.stock.raw . What is the response? And try doing it all without sudo. There is no need in root privileges.
uluruman said:
Of course not. The format of each file is checked using the "file" utility, it should return the string "Android super image". Try to run file /home/toor/APfilles/super.stock.raw . What is the response? And try doing it all without sudo. There is no need in root privileges.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The raw file opens as a picture
uluruman said:
Of course not. The format of each file is checked using the "file" utility, it should return the string "Android super image". Try to run file /home/toor/APfilles/super.stock.raw . What is the response? And try doing it all without sudo. There is no need in root privileges.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
run without sudo: 168: ./lpunpack_and_lpmake/lpunpack: Permission denied Cannot correctly unpack the super file. Exiting ...
I managed to fix the script, you just need to give chmod +x rights to the files in the folder "lpunpack_and_lpmake": lpunpack, lpmake, lpflash, lpdump, lpadd
ANDARXapi said:
I managed to fix the script, you just need to give chmod +x rights to the files in the folder "lpunpack_and_lpmake": lpunpack, lpmake, lpflash, lpdump, lpadd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm. I have updated it, may be it'll help. Could you please test the latest version (v0.92a)? I want to work it out of the box for everyone, without sudo or any tweaks.
uluruman said:
Hmmm. I have updated it, may be it'll help. Could you please test the latest version (v0.92a)? I want to work it out of the box for everyone, without sudo or any tweaks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, I'll test it tomorrow, today I want to relax at the computer all day
uluruman said:
Hmmm. I have updated it, may be it'll help. Could you please test the latest version (v0.92a)? I want to work it out of the box for everyone, without sudo or any tweaks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Checked, it works right away
Is there a way to install magisk and root?

[AQT80] Sprint Slate 8 (Quanta ANS_NKS AQT80) Development Thread (Root, Recovery, etc...)

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"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Sprint Slate 8 (ANS_NKS AQT80) 8 Inch Tablet
Files: Google Drive
<Includes dumps of stock boot, recovery, splash. Attempted TWRP 3.6.0 build>
​I recently had one of these ancient tablets come into my possession, and like any good nerd, I set out to hack it as much as possible. Admittedly, I knew that this would be an uphill battle, given the relative unpopularity of this particular slate, limited resources, and nonexistent documentation. However, I have made some progress, which I'll share here for the benefit of the community. Some of the information here was collected from other threads that I found scattered about via Google. <This thread also serves as a subtle "call-to-arms" for anyone who happens to have access to this device and has the ability to assist in testing recoveries and ROMs for this device in the future. I have access to one, currently, and know where I can locate another. My Android development skills are moderate, but limited, as I have next to no experience with custom ROM creation, or low-level Android systems. Mentor-ship would also be appreciated.>
Rooting
Rooting this device can be accomplished with Kingo Root (I downloaded the APK from the offical website, be sure to enable Unknown Sources for APK installation). Once rooted, you can remove Kingo Root and update SuperSU to 2.49. This should give you root access to install EX File Explorer/Root Uninstaller to debloat Gapps/Facebook/Sprint carrier apps, which speeds up the device nicely.
Recovery
I've been attempting to make a working TWRP for this device using this guide and while I have an image that flashes and boots, it has notable issues with touch input that make it unusable for anything important. I've included a link to Google Drive where I've backed-up the most recent bootable image. Once you have root, you can install the Official TWRP app to flash IMG files to recovery. Always be sure to back-up stock recovery before flashing anything. My stock recovery dump has worked for me, but might not work for you. </Disclaimer>
Custom ROMs
<None currently exist. Future plans include a Marshmallow or Nougat-based build that has better app support than Lollipop. Interestingly, the stock app payload includes both Trebuchet Launcher and CyanogenMod File Browser. Perhaps this tablet shipped with an OEM variant of CM12? More investigation is needed.>
Other Info
Other users have reported that running this device as WiFi-only (no SIM card inserted) leaves a constantly-visible NO SIM notification. I was able to remove this by uninstalling the Sprint-provided apps and phone dialer. Also, enabling Airplane Mode and then re-enabling WiFi and Bluetooth will improve performance and battery life noticably.
I've been unable to replace the boot splash, as this device apparently uses a splash partition and I'm not sure what format the image that I dumped might have and how I could replace it. This dump is also included in the Drive link.
Notably, I have had some issue with getting fastboot commands to work properly on this device. Some commands work while others fail at the remote end. I've tried to track down the issue, trying different versions of platform-tools as well as ADB driver packages. In the event that I accidentally break recovery or system, having fastboot working as a failsafe is a key priority.
I've also managed to locate the website for Quanta which lists a slightly-updated variant of this specific device. I have attempted to reach out to them via their contact email to see if they might provide a copy of the stock firmware at release. This might help with porting a newer version of AOSP.
Future Posts will include more details about installed apps and other information, as uncovered.
CAN someone Please Give Me A Good Link or description on how to Get past the FBR on My Slate AQT80 I got it from a homeless guy Audcart Figuei out
I have one of these with Android 5.1.1. It will not update anything using Wi-Fi.
It won't show up in Windows Explorer when USB is set to MTP.
It's currently sitting stuck on the powered by Android screen after I turned it on while holding volume down. Should have used volume up. Will try that after it runs down overnight and I recharge it.
Got it free with a slightly swelled battery. Spent $25 on a new battery so $^&"it I want the damn thing to work. The display is quite nice so it should be good for ebooks at least.
redrew89 said:
View attachment 5499981
Sprint Slate 8 (ANS_NKS AQT80) 8 Inch Tablet
Files: Google Drive
<Includes dumps of stock boot, recovery, splash. Attempted TWRP 3.6.0 build>
​I recently had one of these ancient tablets come into my possession, and like any good nerd, I set out to hack it as much as possible. Admittedly, I knew that this would be an uphill battle, given the relative unpopularity of this particular slate, limited resources, and nonexistent documentation. However, I have made some progress, which I'll share here for the benefit of the community. Some of the information here was collected from other threads that I found scattered about via Google. <This thread also serves as a subtle "call-to-arms" for anyone who happens to have access to this device and has the ability to assist in testing recoveries and ROMs for this device in the future. I have access to one, currently, and know where I can locate another. My Android development skills are moderate, but limited, as I have next to no experience with custom ROM creation, or low-level Android systems. Mentor-ship would also be appreciated.>
Rooting
Rooting this device can be accomplished with Kingo Root (I downloaded the APK from the offical website, be sure to enable Unknown Sources for APK installation). Once rooted, you can remove Kingo Root and update SuperSU to 2.49. This should give you root access to install EX File Explorer/Root Uninstaller to debloat Gapps/Facebook/Sprint carrier apps, which speeds up the device nicely.
Recovery
I've been attempting to make a working TWRP for this device using this guide and while I have an image that flashes and boots, it has notable issues with touch input that make it unusable for anything important. I've included a link to Google Drive where I've backed-up the most recent bootable image. Once you have root, you can install the Official TWRP app to flash IMG files to recovery. Always be sure to back-up stock recovery before flashing anything. My stock recovery dump has worked for me, but might not work for you. </Disclaimer>
Custom ROMs
<None currently exist. Future plans include a Marshmallow or Nougat-based build that has better app support than Lollipop. Interestingly, the stock app payload includes both Trebuchet Launcher and CyanogenMod File Browser. Perhaps this tablet shipped with an OEM variant of CM12? More investigation is needed.>
Other Info
Other users have reported that running this device as WiFi-only (no SIM card inserted) leaves a constantly-visible NO SIM notification. I was able to remove this by uninstalling the Sprint-provided apps and phone dialer. Also, enabling Airplane Mode and then re-enabling WiFi and Bluetooth will improve performance and battery life noticably.
I've been unable to replace the boot splash, as this device apparently uses a splash partition and I'm not sure what format the image that I dumped might have and how I could replace it. This dump is also included in the Drive link.
Notably, I have had some issue with getting fastboot commands to work properly on this device. Some commands work while others fail at the remote end. I've tried to track down the issue, trying different versions of platform-tools as well as ADB driver packages. In the event that I accidentally break recovery or system, having fastboot working as a failsafe is a key priority.
I've also managed to locate the website for Quanta which lists a slightly-updated variant of this specific device. I have attempted to reach out to them via their contact email to see if they might provide a copy of the stock firmware at release. This might help with porting a newer version of AOSP.
Future Posts will include more details about installed apps and other information, as uncovered. canc
redrew89 said:
View attachment 5499981
Sprint Slate 8 (ANS_NKS AQT80) 8 Inch Tablet
Files: Google Drive
<Includes dumps of stock boot, recovery, splash. Attempted TWRP 3.6.0 build>
​I recently had one of these ancient tablets come into my possession, and like any good nerd, I set out to hack it as much as possible. Admittedly, I knew that this would be an uphill battle, given the relative unpopularity of this particular slate, limited resources, and nonexistent documentation. However, I have made some progress, which I'll share here for the benefit of the community. Some of the information here was collected from other threads that I found scattered about via Google. <This thread also serves as a subtle "call-to-arms" for anyone who happens to have access to this device and has the ability to assist in testing recoveries and ROMs for this device in the future. I have access to one, currently, and know where I can locate another. My Android development skills are moderate, but limited, as I have next to no experience with custom ROM creation, or low-level Android systems. Mentor-ship would also be appreciated.>
Rooting
Rooting this device can be accomplished with Kingo Root (I downloaded the APK from the offical website, be sure to enable Unknown Sources for APK installation). Once rooted, you can remove Kingo Root and update SuperSU to 2.49. This should give you root access to install EX File Explorer/Root Uninstaller to debloat Gapps/Facebook/Sprint carrier apps, which speeds up the device nicely.
Recovery
I've been attempting to make a working TWRP for this device using this guide and while I have an image that flashes and boots, it has notable issues with touch input that make it unusable for anything important. I've included a link to Google Drive where I've backed-up the most recent bootable image. Once you have root, you can install the Official TWRP app to flash IMG files to recovery. Always be sure to back-up stock recovery before flashing anything. My stock recovery dump has worked for me, but might not work for you. </Disclaimer>
Custom ROMs
<None currently exist. Future plans include a Marshmallow or Nougat-based build that has better app support than Lollipop. Interestingly, the stock app payload includes both Trebuchet Launcher and CyanogenMod File Browser. Perhaps this tablet shipped with an OEM variant of CM12? More investigation is needed.>
Other Info
Other users have reported that running this device as WiFi-only (no SIM card inserted) leaves a constantly-visible NO SIM notification. I was able to remove this by uninstalling the Sprint-provided apps and phone dialer. Also, enabling Airplane Mode and then re-enabling WiFi and Bluetooth will improve performance and battery life noticably.
I've been unable to replace the boot splash, as this device apparently uses a splash partition and I'm not sure what format the image that I dumped might have and how I could replace it. This dump is also included in the Drive link.
Notably, I have had some issue with getting fastboot commands to work properly on this device. Some commands work while others fail at the remote end. I've tried to track down the issue, trying different versions of platform-tools as well as ADB driver packages. In the event that I accidentally break recovery or system, having fastboot working as a failsafe is a key priority.
I've also managed to locate the website for Quanta which lists a slightly-updated variant of this specific device. I have attempted to reach out to them via their contact email to see if they might provide a copy of the stock firmware at release. This might help with porting a newer version of AOSP.
Future Posts will include more details about installed apps and other information, as uncovered.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do you have another link to the files your drive account doesnt work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've also come across one recently and would be more than happy to help you test ROMs or recovery custom images.
I have one of these, would love to have a newer Android version with no bloatware and ignore the cellphone radio.

[GUIDE] Assurance Wireless KonnectONE Moxee m2160 (MH-T6000) Rooting Guide

Assurance Wireless
KonnectONE Moxee m2160
4G-LTE Smartphone
Model No. MH-T6000
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Rooting Guide​
OVERVIEW:
This guide outlines simplified instructions for rooting the Assurance Wireless Moxee MH-T6000 4G-LTE smartphone. To cater this guide to new and inexperienced members, I have provided a stock boot image pre-patched with the Magisk v26.1 systemless root solution.
PREREQUISITES:
First and foremost, you need an unlocked bootloader. If your bootloader is not yet unlocked, complete that task and then return here. XDA hosts a plethora of how-to guides on standard bootloader unlocking. You will also need a Windows PC or laptop running the Minimal ADB & Fastboot Tools (link provided below). It should be noted that this guide can be carried out on a Mac or Linux computer as well; however, for purposes of this guide, I am focusing solely on a Windows setup. It is highly recommended that your device be running firmware build number MH-T6000V1.0.OB010, with the March 5, 2023 security patch level. As OTA updates are rolled out for this device, I will try to keep this guide updated with a patched boot image that corresponds with the latest firmware build.
Finally, you will need the factory supplied, or a quality equivalent USB-A to USB-C charging/syncing cable.
DISCLAIMER:
By proceeding further, you are assuming sole responsibility for the integrity and operability of your smartphone. Rooting your device is a task that carries with it the inherent risk of bricking or otherwise rendering your phone inoperable. While this guide has been thoroughly tested on my own device, you have been warned. Proceed at your own risk.
INSTRUCTIONS:​
Download the ADB & Fastboot tools from the link below and install the program on your PC or laptop;​
Open your Windows File Explorer, navigate to your C: drive, Program Files x86, and locate the Minimal ADB & Fastboot folder. Copy this folder and paste it to your desktop. (This step is not required, but is recommended for easier access of the ADB & Fastboot path);​
Download the patched boot image from the below link and save the image in your ADB & Fastboot folder. Note: the filename for the patched boot image is patched_boot.img. The flashing commands assume that you leave the filename unchanged;​
Boot your phone into fastboot mode by first powering your device off, and then holding the power and volume down keys simultaneously until fastboot mode appears on your device display;​
Connect your smartphone to your Windows computer using the factory supplied or a quality equivalent USB-A to USB-C charging/syncing cable;​
Open your ADB & Fastboot folder and double click cmd-here.exe to open a command window. Execute this command to verify a proper fastboot connection:
Code:
fastboot devices
If properly connected, the command window will return an alphanumeric string consistent with your device serial number;​
Once a proper connection has been verified, execute this command:
Code:
fastboot flash boot patched_boot.img
Now execute:
Code:
fastboot reboot
Upon reboot, open your app drawer and tap on the Magisk app or its placeholder stub. Ensure you are connected to the internet, grant any permissions, and follow any prompts given by Magisk to update to the full version in order to complete the root environment setup. Magisk may reboot your device during this process.​
That's it. You're now rooted via the Magisk v26.1 systemless root solution.​
IMPORTANT NOTE:
In the unfortunate event that you get stuck in a boot loop or brick your device using this guide, my guide on unbricking this smartphone will get you back up and running fairly quickly. This guide can be used to restore both soft bricked and hard bricked devices. You can then return here and give rooting another go.
Moxee MH-T6000 Unbricking Guide​DOWNLOADS:
• Minimal ADB & Fastboot v1.4.3
• Magisk Patched Boot Image
THANKS & MENTIONS:
A huge thanks and shout-out to @omb714.1980 for donating the Moxee smartphone that made this rooting guide possible. You are a scholar and a gentleman, good sir. Thanks also to KonnectONE support specialist Faith Flores for releasing to me the factory firmware for this device.​
Viva La Android said:
Assurance Wireless
Moxee MH-T6000 4G-LTE
View attachment 5893661
Rooting Guide​
OVERVIEW:
This guide outlines simplified instructions for rooting the Assurance Wireless Moxee MH-T6000 4G-LTE smartphone. To cater this guide to new and inexperienced members, I have provided a stock boot image pre-patched with the Magisk v26.1 systemless root solution.
PREREQUISITES:
First and foremost, you need an unlocked bootloader. If your bootloader is not yet unlocked, complete that task and then return here. You will also need a Windows PC or laptop running the Minimal ADB & Fastboot Tools (link provided below). It should be noted that this guide can be carried out on a Mac or Linux computer as well; however, for purposes of this guide, I am focusing solely on a Windows setup. It is highly recommended that your device be running firmware build number MH-T6000V1.0.OB010, with the March 5, 2023 security patch level. Finally, you will need the factory supplied, or a quality equivalent USB-A to USB-C charging/syncing cable.
DISCLAIMER:
By proceeding further, you are assuming sole responsibility for the integrity and operability of your smartphone. Rooting your device is a task that carries the inherent risk of bricking or otherwise rendering your phone inoperable. While this guide has been thoroughly tested on my own device, you have been warned. Proceed at your own risk.
INSTRUCTIONS:​
Download the ADB & Fastboot tools from the link below and install the program on your PC or laptop;​
Open your Windows File Explorer, navigate to your C: drive, Program Files x86, and locate the Minimal ADB & Fastboot folder. Copy this folder and paste it to your desktop. (This step is not required, but is recommended for easier access of the ADB & Fastboot path);​
Download the patched boot image from the below link and save the image in your ADB & Fastboot folder;​
Boot your phone into fastboot mode by first powering your device off, and then holding the power and volume down keys simultaneously until fastboot mode appears on your device display;​
Connect your smartphone to your Windows computer using the factory supplied or a quality equivalent USB-A to USB-C charging/syncing cable;​
Open your ADB & Fastboot folder and double click cmd-here.exe to open a command window. Execute this command to verify a proper fastboot connection:
Code:
fastboot devices
If properly connected, the command window will return an alphanumeric string consistent with your device serial number;​
Once a proper connection has been verified, execute this command:
Code:
fastboot flash boot patched_boot.img
Now execute:
Code:
fastboot reboot
Upon reboot, open your app drawer and tap on the Magisk app or its placeholder stub. Ensure you are connected to the internet, grant any permissions, and follow any prompts given by Magisk to update to the full version in order to complete the root environment setup. Magisk may reboot your device during this process.​
That's it. You're now rooted via the Magisk v26.1 systemless root solution.​
DOWNLOADS:
• Minimal ADB & Fastboot v1.4.3
• Magisk Patched Boot Image
THANKS & MENTIONS:
A huge thanks and shout-out to @omb714.1980 for donating the Moxee smartphone that made this rooting guide possible. You are a scholar and a gentleman, good sir. Thanks also to the KonnectONE support team for releasing to me the factory firmware for this device.​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol. Now you post this. After unsuccessfully scouring the internet for the stock firmware. I finally did the same as you and simply reached out to konnectone and asked for it. I just came here to see if there was anyone here that is by far more knowledgeable than myself (not hard) interested to have the firmware and would post a guide like this one. Well done!
Would you happen to have a twrp recovery compiled for this device by chance? Or if not but planning on it would you let me know please. I would appreciate it!
scottfan81 said:
Lol. Now you post this. After unsuccessfully scouring the internet for the stock firmware. I finally did the same as you and simply reached out to konnectone and asked for it. I just came here to see if there was anyone here that is by far more knowledgeable than myself (not hard) interested to have the firmware and would post a guide like this one. Well done!
Would you happen to have a twrp recovery compiled for this device by chance? Or if not but planning on it would you let me know please. I would appreciate it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got KonnectONE to agree to release firmware a couple of days before you mentioned having firmware. It's been a long wait indeed.
I don't have source code to compile TWRP; only the firmware. I will be attempting to port a TWRP build for this phone very soon. My legal battle with KonnectONE was in regards to source code under the General Public License 2.0. Because they were ultimately unable to provide kernel source, their legal team and support department finally acquiesced to provide firmware to device owners upon written request. I compromised for the firmware release, but was not able to get kernel source code for building TWRP. I am pretty confident that a ported TWRP can be ironed out as a stable build. I already have the base build selected.
Thank you so much! I have 3 of these devices and been waiting lol. I see the stock kernel has hot-plug . What's some good tuning profiles? I tried to debloat permanently with LP but it didn't work. I think it's read-only so I flashed the magisk overlay for rw and going to play. We definitely need TWRP! I see a port may be in the works. Awesome. Thanks again
Viva La Android said:
I just got KonnectONE to agree to release firmware a couple of days before you mentioned having firmware. It's been a long wait indeed.
I don't have source code to compile TWRP; only the firmware. I will be attempting to port a TWRP build for this phone very soon. My legal battle with KonnectONE was in regards to source code under the General Public License 2.0. Because they were ultimately unable to provide kernel source, their legal team and support department finally acquiesced to provide firmware to device owners upon written request. I compromised for the firmware release, but was not able to get kernel source code for building TWRP. I am pretty confident that a ported TWRP can be ironed out as a stable build. I already have the base build selected.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They never replied when I emailed them about it several months ago . This is so awesome. I got rid of most of the lag with kernel manager. Kudos
Argonon said:
They never replied when I emailed them about it several months ago . This is so awesome. I got rid of most of the lag with kernel manager. Kudos
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several months ago they weren't releasing firmware to the public. I got it released by battling with them over open source code and I ultimately compromised for factory firmware. It was only recently made public.
Yeah I've noticed a nice performance boost too with some debloating and sone kernel tweaks. I'm using EX Kernel Manager. Keep in mind this device uses dynamic partitioning (super.img). As such, even with root, it isn't always possible to mount /system r/w. I extracted the super.img on a PC and then mounted /system, /vendor and /product, debloated, and then repacked and reflashed super img.
Awesome. I don't have a good pc now unfortunately. I do have viper4android repackaged version with driver and effects pre-installed. I used smart pack kernel manager to tweak kernel. The device is very useable now! I have a Blu View 3 android 11 mtk device id love to root but can't even unlock bootloader. Maybe I should look into emailing them
Argonon said:
Awesome. I don't have a good pc now unfortunately. I do have viper4android repackaged version with driver and effects pre-installed. I used smart pack kernel manager to tweak kernel. The device is very useable now! I have a Blu View 3 android 11 mtk device id love to root but can't even unlock bootloader. Maybe I should look into emailing them
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BLU won't unlock your bootloader. It is locked per contractual agreement with the branded carrier of the phone. However, if it's MediaTek, you may be able to use MTK Client to exploit the bootloader into an unlocked state.
Viva La Android said:
Several months ago they weren't releasing firmware to the public. I got it released by battling with them over open source code and I ultimately compromised for factory firmware. It was only recently made public.
Yeah I've noticed a nice performance boost too with some debloating and sone kernel tweaks. I'm using EX Kernel Manager. Keep in mind this device uses dynamic partitioning (super.img). As such, even with root, it isn't always possible to mount /system r/w. I extracted the super.img on a PC and then mounted /system, /vendor and /product, debloated, and then repacked and reflashed super img.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you plz share your super.img ? I'm on latest firmware and have attached screenshot of build etc.... I understand if you can't or don't want to. Can I pull mine since I'm rooted? Problem is I have a old Chromebook that I installed endeavor os on its arch based Linux but I don't have much hard drive space to do work
Viva La Android said:
Several months ago they weren't releasing firmware to the public. I got it released by battling with them over open source code and I ultimately compromised for factory firmware. It was only recently made public.
Yeah I've noticed a nice performance boost too with some debloating and sone kernel tweaks. I'm using EX Kernel Manager. Keep in mind this device uses dynamic partitioning (super.img). As such, even with root, it isn't always possible to mount /system r/w. I extracted the super.img on a PC and then mounted /system, /vendor and /product, debloated, and then repacked and reflashed super img.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you plz share your super.img ? I'm on latest firmware and have attached screenshot of build etc.... I understand if you can't or don't want to. Can I pull mine since I'm rooted? Problem is I have a old Chromebook that I installed endeavor os on its arch based Linux but I don't have much hard drive space to do work
Viva La Android said:
I just got KonnectONE to agree to release firmware a couple of days before you mentioned having firmware. It's been a long wait indeed.
I don't have source code to compile TWRP; only the firmware. I will be attempting to port a TWRP build for this phone very soon. My legal battle with KonnectONE was in regards to source code under the General Public License 2.0. Because they were ultimately unable to provide kernel source, their legal team and support department finally acquiesced to provide firmware to device owners upon written request. I compromised for the firmware release, but was not able to get kernel source code for building TWRP. I am pretty confident that a ported TWRP can be ironed out as a stable build. I already have the base build selected.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have 3 of these devices. I surly can test TWRP port if needed
Argonon said:
Would you plz share your super.img ? I'm on latest firmware and have attached screenshot of build etc.... I understand if you can't or don't want to. Can I pull mine since I'm rooted? Problem is I have a old Chromebook that I installed endeavor os on its arch based Linux but I don't have much hard drive space to do work
I have 3 of these devices. I surly can test TWRP port if needed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure. I don't mind sharing my super.img. I'll need to upload it and then I'll message you a link. It's pretty much exactly 2.5 GB in file size, so I'll first compress it to a zip before uploading.
The edited one. Just clarifying so appreciated
Argonon said:
The edited one. Just clarifying so appreciated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't yet have all my mods made to the /super partition in that regard. Having encountered some force close issues with certain apps, I debloated from scratch and and have now begun my kernel tweaks and edits to the.varuous .prop files. So when finished, I'll share both my boot.img and super.img.
Just the stock super.img would be fine then. I think I can figure how to decompile, debloat and recompile then flash.
Argonon said:
Just the stock super.img would be fine then. I think I can figure how to decompile, debloat and recompile then flash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MH-T6000 super.img unmodified
I was experimenting and flashed the super.img with dsu side loader apk as a gsi lol. The app description said can replace various partitions and I was just trying to get system rw on the dsu loader. I know that makes no sense. What windows 11 compatible software do you recommend to unpack, repack etc? I see a few magisk modules but not quite sure how to use. Like ro2rw magisk module
Viva La Android said:
MH-T6000 super.img unmodified
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you!
Argonon said:
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I have completed debloating, kernel tweaks and .prop files edits of the OS, I'll share my modified super.img and boot.img. I have a TWRP v3.6.0 port build that is currently booting properly on this phone. But, I have bugs to work out on logical partition mounting, as well as the backup & restore functionality.
Argonon said:
I was experimenting and flashed the super.img with dsu side loader apk as a gsi lol. The app description said can replace various partitions and I was just trying to get system rw on the dsu loader. I know that makes no sense. What windows 11 compatible software do you recommend to unpack, repack etc? I see a few magisk modules but not quite sure how to use. Like ro2rw magisk module
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check out CRB Android Kitchen here on XDA. Great for unpacking / repacking partition images, including super.img.
Viva La Android said:
When I have completed debloating, kernel tweaks and .prop files edits of the OS, I'll share my modified super.img and boot.img. I have a TWRP v3.6.0 port build that is currently booting properly on this phone. But, I have bugs to work out on logical partition mounting, as well as the backup & restore
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you had anymore luck with this

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