I'm unfamiliar with how this all fits together. For example, I don't understand how if the bootloader is unlocked, why will it still brick the device if the bootloader is mismatched? Why would the BL version matter if it's unlocked? If the BL will still cripple the device, then it's not really "unlocked", is it?
Also, what does this mean in the future after Motorola stops updating the X? I know we can flash ROMs, but will we be stuck using the base of whatever update Moto/Verizon decides to put out?
The more detailed the better. I've tried googling and searching here, but I can't find any sort of place where this info is gathered & presented in a digestible format....all I'm finding is little pieces of info here & there. I don't even know enough to properly ask for more info. Any help, explanations, or links would be greatly appreciated.
Hopefully this gets you started... Its not completed, but I was typing it up in my spare time because I see a lot of people asking these questions
Versions of the Moto X..
There are 3 main versions of the Moto X available today..
1. Carrier Branded (aka Retail). Except for T-Mobie USA, this is available for order/pickup directly from your Carrier, their store or web site.
2. MotoMaker Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Ordering this version allows you to customize your device by selecting Memory, Front Color, Back Color, Accent (button, camera trim ring) color, add custom wall paper, engraving on the back, or even startup message.
3. Developer Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Available as black front, woven white back, silver accent (button/camera trim ring).
Due to the frequencies used by the various wireless carriers where the phones are sold, there are a few different model number designations like XT1060 (Verizon), XT1058 (AT&T), XT1053 (T-Mobile USA and GSM Developer Edition), along with other models depending on location/carrier. (NOTE: the Retail/MotoMaker and Developer Edition for Verizon are both XT1060).
Locked vs Unlocked bootloader. Why is this important?
Whats the difference between locked and unlocked?
While this article gives a good, detailed explanation -> http://www.extremetech.com/computin...tloader-and-why-does-verizon-want-them-locked
An overly simplified way of explaining this would be to say that With a locked bootloader, you can only flash ROMS and software digitally signed by your phone maker. Having an unlocked Bootloader allows you to flash custom roms, recoveries, kernels, etc, or to fully hack/customize your phone.
Why would I want unlocked bootloader?
If you are looking to root your phone and have a locked bootloader, you have to wait for someone to find a flaw in your phones rom/firmware, and exploit/hack it. This is getting increasingly difficult as Android evolves. As new updates for the phone get released, you need to wait until someone finds a usable exploit, creates a repeatable process that is relatively safe, and releases it. This could takes weeks, months, or never come. For Android 4.2.2, there was a process called RockMyMoto, for Android 4.4, SlapMyMoto. Neither of these exploits work for the Android 4.4.2 update, and as of this writing, no exploit/hack/process has been released for 4.4.2.
Having an unlocked bootloader, and being able to flash 3rd party code simplifies the rooting/hacking process, but could also be dangerous. If you want to root without having to wait on exploits or processes to be found, having an unlocked or unlockable bootloader is considered best. Once your bootloader is unlocked, you can install a custom recovery (like TWRP), boot to it, and install SuperSU and you will be rooted. This can be done no matter what ROM version is on your phone.
To fully remove the phone maker's rom, and replace it with a completely custom rom, your phone needs to have an unlocked bootloader.
Can I unlock the Bootloader on my Moto X?
If you have a Developer Edition Moto X, yes you can unlock the bootloader and it doesn't void your warranty.
If you have a MotoMaker or Carrier Branded model, it depends on IF your carrier allows Motorola to do it, and will void your warranty. For example, Verizon and ATT does now allow Motorola to unlock your boot loader. To see if your Moto X bootloader can be unlocked see -> https://motorola-global-portal.cust...e/bootloader/unlock-your-device-a/action/auth You can step through the procees until you get to the final submit WITHOUT voiding your warranty. Once you hit the final submit to request the code, your warranty is voided (unless your phone is the developer edition)
For the Verizon and ATT which Moto's web site wouldn't give out bootloader unlock codes, there was an option of buying the Bootloader Unlock Code for Non-Dev Verizon X from a Chinese site or middleman, but it appears to have dried up. (no contact from the seller in a few days, and rumors he got caught/fired/worse)
What is Write Protection Enabled or Disabled? Why is this important?
Due to trying to enhance the security on newer Android phones, the Motorola X ships with "Write Protection" enabled. This prevents any changes to /System or other "protected" folders from surviving a Power Off/On (aka hard reset). If you manage to gain root, but Write Protection is still enabled, any changes you make while rooted would be lost after Power Off/On.
If you have an unlockable bootloader, unlocking the bootloader disables write protection.
If you have a locked bootloader, an exploit/hack needs to be found and process needs to be developed and released. For Android 4.4 and below on the X, a process called MotoWpNoMo was used, however the Android 4.4.2 update closed/fixed the exploit and MotoWpNoMo no longer works. So as of this writing, if you have a locked boot loader, there is no way to Disable Write Protection on Android 4.4.2.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Can flash a 3rd party or custom rom?
If you want to flash a Non-Motorola ROM on your phone, say something like CyanogenMod, you MUST have an unlocked bootloader.
Can you just tell me how to root my Moto X phone?(sorry, this might be the long answer, but hopefully it will help you understand what I'm saying and why..)
SlapMyMoto can be used to root, and MotoWpNoMo can be used to disable write protection *IF* your phone is on 4.4 or lower.
MotoWpNoMo (which disables write protection) is needed because when Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you take the 4.4.2 OTA), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on. Even if you have root, but lost Write Protection, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that gets installed to /system after WP is enabled will be lost at power off/on.
If you are on 4.4. and use SlapMyMoto/MotoWpNoMo, but later take the OTA to 4.4.2, you might keep root but Write Protection will be re-enabled with no way to disable it.
Due to fixes and changes in 4.4.2, the Root and Disable Write Protection processes that worked on 4.4 and lower, no longer work on 4.4.2. And don't expect anything for 4.4.2 for a while, if ever. So if the phone you buy comes with 4.4.2 pre-installed, or you have taken the 4.4.2 OTA update, and you have a locked bootloader you're stuck!!
This is not an issue if you have an unlocked bootloader. You can still unlock your bootloader (which disables write protection), and root (by just using a custom recovery and flashing SuperSU) no matter what rom is on your phone.
In conclusion...
If you really need ROOT, Write Protection Disabled, want to modify/replace/delete system files, the ability to tether on an unlimited data plan, flash a custom rom (like CyanogenMod or others) then you really should consider getting the Developer Edition X, as you can unlock its bootloader (without voiding warranty), root it (no matter what rom is on the phone), and do what you want.
If your carrier allows Moto to give you the code to unlock the bootloader, then you just have to weight the option of being able to order your phone customized (moto maker) and unlock the bootloader while voiding the warranty, or have an uncustomized phone that the warranty remains intact should you unlock the bootloader.
KidJoe said:
Hopefully this gets you started... Its not completed, but I was typing it up in my spare time because I see a lot of people asking these questions
Versions of the Moto X..
There are 3 main versions of the Moto X available today..
1. Carrier Branded (aka Retail). Except for T-Mobie USA, this is available for order/pickup directly from your Carrier, their store or web site.
2. MotoMaker Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Ordering this version allows you to customize your device by selecting Memory, Front Color, Back Color, Accent (button, camera trim ring) color, add custom wall paper, engraving on the back, or even startup message.
3. Developer Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Available as black front, woven white back, silver accent (button/camera trim ring).
Due to the frequencies used by the various wireless carriers where the phones are sold, there are a few different model number designations like XT1060 (Verizon), XT1058 (AT&T), XT1053 (T-Mobile USA and GSM Developer Edition), along with other models depending on location/carrier. (NOTE: the Retail/MotoMaker and Developer Edition for Verizon are both XT1060).
Locked vs Unlocked bootloader. Why is this important?
Whats the difference between locked and unlocked?
While this article gives a good, detailed explanation -> http://www.extremetech.com/computin...tloader-and-why-does-verizon-want-them-locked
An overly simplified way of explaining this would be to say that With a locked bootloader, you can only flash ROMS and software digitally signed by your phone maker. Having an unlocked Bootloader allows you to flash custom roms, recoveries, kernels, etc, or to fully hack/customize your phone.
Why would I want unlocked bootloader?
If you are looking to root your phone and have a locked bootloader, you have to wait for someone to find a flaw in your phones rom/firmware, and exploit/hack it. This is getting increasingly difficult as Android evolves. As new updates for the phone get released, you need to wait until someone finds a usable exploit, creates a repeatable process that is relatively safe, and releases it. This could takes weeks, months, or never come. For Android 4.2.2, there was a process called RockMyMoto, for Android 4.4, SlapMyMoto. Neither of these exploits work for the Android 4.4.2 update, and as of this writing, no exploit/hack/process has been released for 4.4.2.
Having an unlocked bootloader, and being able to flash 3rd party code simplifies the rooting/hacking process, but could also be dangerous. If you want to root without having to wait on exploits or processes to be found, having an unlocked or unlockable bootloader is considered best. Once your bootloader is unlocked, you can install a custom recovery (like TWRP), boot to it, and install SuperSU and you will be rooted. This can be done no matter what ROM version is on your phone.
To fully remove the phone maker's rom, and replace it with a completely custom rom, your phone needs to have an unlocked bootloader.
Can I unlock the Bootloader on my Moto X?
If you have a Developer Edition Moto X, yes you can unlock the bootloader and it doesn't void your warranty.
If you have a MotoMaker or Carrier Branded model, it depends on IF your carrier allows Motorola to do it, and will void your warranty. For example, Verizon and ATT does now allow Motorola to unlock your boot loader. To see if your Moto X bootloader can be unlocked see -> https://motorola-global-portal.cust...e/bootloader/unlock-your-device-a/action/auth You can step through the procees until you get to the final submit WITHOUT voiding your warranty. Once you hit the final submit to request the code, your warranty is voided (unless your phone is the developer edition)
For the Verizon and ATT which Moto's web site wouldn't give out bootloader unlock codes, there was an option of buying the Bootloader Unlock Code for Non-Dev Verizon X from a Chinese site or middleman, but it appears to have dried up. (no contact from the seller in a few days, and rumors he got caught/fired/worse)
What is Write Protection Enabled or Disabled? Why is this important?
Due to trying to enhance the security on newer Android phones, the Motorola X ships with "Write Protection" enabled. This prevents any changes to /System or other "protected" folders from surviving a Power Off/On (aka hard reset). If you manage to gain root, but Write Protection is still enabled, any changes you make while rooted would be lost after Power Off/On.
If you have an unlockable bootloader, unlocking the bootloader disables write protection.
If you have a locked bootloader, an exploit/hack needs to be found and process needs to be developed and released. For Android 4.4 and below on the X, a process called MotoWpNoMo was used, however the Android 4.4.2 update closed/fixed the exploit and MotoWpNoMo no longer works. So as of this writing, if you have a locked boot loader, there is no way to Disable Write Protection on Android 4.4.2.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Can flash a 3rd party or custom rom?
If you want to flash a Non-Motorola ROM on your phone, say something like CyanogenMod, you MUST have an unlocked bootloader.
Can you just tell me how to root my Moto X phone?(sorry, this might be the long answer, but hopefully it will help you understand what I'm saying and why..)
SlapMyMoto can be used to root, and MotoWpNoMo can be used to disable write protection *IF* your phone is on 4.4 or lower.
MotoWpNoMo (which disables write protection) is needed because when Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you take the 4.4.2 OTA), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on. Even if you have root, but lost Write Protection, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that gets installed to /system after WP is enabled will be lost at power off/on.
If you are on 4.4. and use SlapMyMoto/MotoWpNoMo, but later take the OTA to 4.4.2, you might keep root but Write Protection will be re-enabled with no way to disable it.
Due to fixes and changes in 4.4.2, the Root and Disable Write Protection processes that worked on 4.4 and lower, no longer work on 4.4.2. And don't expect anything for 4.4.2 for a while, if ever. So if the phone you buy comes with 4.4.2 pre-installed, or you have taken the 4.4.2 OTA update, and you have a locked bootloader you're stuck!!
This is not an issue if you have an unlocked bootloader. You can still unlock your bootloader (which disables write protection), and root (by just using a custom recovery and flashing SuperSU) no matter what rom is on your phone.
In conclusion...
If you really need ROOT, Write Protection Disabled, want to modify/replace/delete system files, the ability to tether on an unlimited data plan, flash a custom rom (like CyanogenMod or others) then you really should consider getting the Developer Edition X, as you can unlock its bootloader (without voiding warranty), root it (no matter what rom is on the phone), and do what you want.
If your carrier allows Moto to give you the code to unlock the bootloader, then you just have to weight the option of being able to order your phone customized (moto maker) and unlock the bootloader while voiding the warranty, or have an uncustomized phone that the warranty remains intact should you unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your reply! It has helped clear up most of my confusion.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you elaborate a little bit on this? What changes were made, and why does it brick your phone? (If the bootloader is unlocked, this shouldn't be an issue.....but this is not the case, obviously.) What makes this different than loading a ROM? Is there the same chance to brick your phone from flashing a ROM?
Arak-Nafein said:
Can you elaborate a little bit on this? What changes were made, and why does it brick your phone? (If the bootloader is unlocked, this shouldn't be an issue.....but this is not the case, obviously.) What makes this different than loading a ROM? Is there the same chance to brick your phone from flashing a ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't create the bootloader, so I can't elaborate on what exactly was changed. Moto doesn't post release notes. As why it bricks, I could only tell you what I've read. And the thread that was here discussing it in details has vanished for some reason. I do know things like GPT.BIN also come into play, but I don't remember ALL of the details.
As for this shouldn't be an issue with the bootloader being unlocked.. Well, I can tell you unlocked bootloader or not, the long thread that vanished was reports of both those who used the unlock code from Moto to unlock their bootloader, and those who still had a locked bootloader.
The bootloader is unlocked at least to the point that it disables the write protection and you can flash roms, recoveries, etc that are NOT signed by Moto. Is that "fully unlocked" I'll let someone else answer that.
If the 3rd party rom you are trying to install tries to revert the bootloader to a lower level or tries to downgrade the security files (GPT.BIN and a few others), then yes, you have a chance to brick. But most likely only the System partition will be written on 3rd party rom.
KidJoe said:
I didn't create the bootloader, so I can't elaborate on what exactly was changed. Moto doesn't post release notes. As why it bricks, I could only tell you what I've read. And the thread that was here discussing it in details has vanished for some reason. I do know things like GPT.BIN also come into play, but I don't remember ALL of the details.
As for this shouldn't be an issue with the bootloader being unlocked.. Well, I can tell you unlocked bootloader or not, the long thread that vanished was reports of both those who used the unlock code from Moto to unlock their bootloader, and those who still had a locked bootloader.
The bootloader is unlocked at least to the point that it disables the write protection and you can flash roms, recoveries, etc that are NOT signed by Moto. Is that "fully unlocked" I'll let someone else answer that.
If the 3rd party rom you are trying to install tries to revert the bootloader to a lower level or tries to downgrade the security files (GPT.BIN and a few others), then yes, you have a chance to brick. But most likely only the System partition will be written on 3rd party rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again!
I would love to read that thread if anyone has it archived or something.
KidJoe said:
Hopefully this gets you started... Its not completed, but I was typing it up in my spare time because I see a lot of people asking these questions
Versions of the Moto X..
There are 3 main versions of the Moto X available today..
1. Carrier Branded (aka Retail). Except for T-Mobie USA, this is available for order/pickup directly from your Carrier, their store or web site.
2. MotoMaker Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Ordering this version allows you to customize your device by selecting Memory, Front Color, Back Color, Accent (button, camera trim ring) color, add custom wall paper, engraving on the back, or even startup message.
3. Developer Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Available as black front, woven white back, silver accent (button/camera trim ring).
Due to the frequencies used by the various wireless carriers where the phones are sold, there are a few different model number designations like XT1060 (Verizon), XT1058 (AT&T), XT1053 (T-Mobile USA and GSM Developer Edition), along with other models depending on location/carrier. (NOTE: the Retail/MotoMaker and Developer Edition for Verizon are both XT1060).
Locked vs Unlocked bootloader. Why is this important?
Whats the difference between locked and unlocked?
While this article gives a good, detailed explanation -> http://www.extremetech.com/computin...tloader-and-why-does-verizon-want-them-locked
An overly simplified way of explaining this would be to say that With a locked bootloader, you can only flash ROMS and software digitally signed by your phone maker. Having an unlocked Bootloader allows you to flash custom roms, recoveries, kernels, etc, or to fully hack/customize your phone.
Why would I want unlocked bootloader?
If you are looking to root your phone and have a locked bootloader, you have to wait for someone to find a flaw in your phones rom/firmware, and exploit/hack it. This is getting increasingly difficult as Android evolves. As new updates for the phone get released, you need to wait until someone finds a usable exploit, creates a repeatable process that is relatively safe, and releases it. This could takes weeks, months, or never come. For Android 4.2.2, there was a process called RockMyMoto, for Android 4.4, SlapMyMoto. Neither of these exploits work for the Android 4.4.2 update, and as of this writing, no exploit/hack/process has been released for 4.4.2.
Having an unlocked bootloader, and being able to flash 3rd party code simplifies the rooting/hacking process, but could also be dangerous. If you want to root without having to wait on exploits or processes to be found, having an unlocked or unlockable bootloader is considered best. Once your bootloader is unlocked, you can install a custom recovery (like TWRP), boot to it, and install SuperSU and you will be rooted. This can be done no matter what ROM version is on your phone.
To fully remove the phone maker's rom, and replace it with a completely custom rom, your phone needs to have an unlocked bootloader.
Can I unlock the Bootloader on my Moto X?
If you have a Developer Edition Moto X, yes you can unlock the bootloader and it doesn't void your warranty.
If you have a MotoMaker or Carrier Branded model, it depends on IF your carrier allows Motorola to do it, and will void your warranty. For example, Verizon and ATT does now allow Motorola to unlock your boot loader. To see if your Moto X bootloader can be unlocked see -> https://motorola-global-portal.cust...e/bootloader/unlock-your-device-a/action/auth You can step through the procees until you get to the final submit WITHOUT voiding your warranty. Once you hit the final submit to request the code, your warranty is voided (unless your phone is the developer edition)
For the Verizon and ATT which Moto's web site wouldn't give out bootloader unlock codes, there was an option of buying the Bootloader Unlock Code for Non-Dev Verizon X from a Chinese site or middleman, but it appears to have dried up. (no contact from the seller in a few days, and rumors he got caught/fired/worse)
What is Write Protection Enabled or Disabled? Why is this important?
Due to trying to enhance the security on newer Android phones, the Motorola X ships with "Write Protection" enabled. This prevents any changes to /System or other "protected" folders from surviving a Power Off/On (aka hard reset). If you manage to gain root, but Write Protection is still enabled, any changes you make while rooted would be lost after Power Off/On.
If you have an unlockable bootloader, unlocking the bootloader disables write protection.
If you have a locked bootloader, an exploit/hack needs to be found and process needs to be developed and released. For Android 4.4 and below on the X, a process called MotoWpNoMo was used, however the Android 4.4.2 update closed/fixed the exploit and MotoWpNoMo no longer works. So as of this writing, if you have a locked boot loader, there is no way to Disable Write Protection on Android 4.4.2.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Can flash a 3rd party or custom rom?
If you want to flash a Non-Motorola ROM on your phone, say something like CyanogenMod, you MUST have an unlocked bootloader.
Can you just tell me how to root my Moto X phone?(sorry, this might be the long answer, but hopefully it will help you understand what I'm saying and why..)
SlapMyMoto can be used to root, and MotoWpNoMo can be used to disable write protection *IF* your phone is on 4.4 or lower.
MotoWpNoMo (which disables write protection) is needed because when Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you take the 4.4.2 OTA), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on. Even if you have root, but lost Write Protection, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that gets installed to /system after WP is enabled will be lost at power off/on.
If you are on 4.4. and use SlapMyMoto/MotoWpNoMo, but later take the OTA to 4.4.2, you might keep root but Write Protection will be re-enabled with no way to disable it.
Due to fixes and changes in 4.4.2, the Root and Disable Write Protection processes that worked on 4.4 and lower, no longer work on 4.4.2. And don't expect anything for 4.4.2 for a while, if ever. So if the phone you buy comes with 4.4.2 pre-installed, or you have taken the 4.4.2 OTA update, and you have a locked bootloader you're stuck!!
This is not an issue if you have an unlocked bootloader. You can still unlock your bootloader (which disables write protection), and root (by just using a custom recovery and flashing SuperSU) no matter what rom is on your phone.
In conclusion...
If you really need ROOT, Write Protection Disabled, want to modify/replace/delete system files, the ability to tether on an unlimited data plan, flash a custom rom (like CyanogenMod or others) then you really should consider getting the Developer Edition X, as you can unlock its bootloader (without voiding warranty), root it (no matter what rom is on the phone), and do what you want.
If your carrier allows Moto to give you the code to unlock the bootloader, then you just have to weight the option of being able to order your phone customized (moto maker) and unlock the bootloader while voiding the warranty, or have an uncustomized phone that the warranty remains intact should you unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Question. Do you need a custom recovery to root? Can you root the Dev edition with stock recovery? I had a locked edition before and rooted it using the exploit method. Now i'm contemplating a Dev edition but don't want to use a custom recovery to root it.
Slim706 said:
Question. Do you need a custom recovery to root? Can you root the Dev edition with stock recovery? I had a locked edition before and rooted it using the exploit method. Now i'm contemplating a Dev edition but don't want to use a custom recovery to root it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You must root via custom recovery. But after you are rooted, you can flash stock recovery back on if you wish and remain rooted.
I just got my Moto X in India and it bears the model number XT1052, it is the officially available model in India.
But, I saw no mention of this on XDA anywhere, so also I wasn't able to find any root methods for it. Can you suggest anything?
krazzyvishal said:
I just got my Moto X in India and it bears the model number XT1052, it is the officially available model in India.
But, I saw no mention of this on XDA anywhere, so also I wasn't able to find any root methods for it. Can you suggest anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root methods are all the same....one way for locked bootloader and one way for unlocked bootloaders.
Read the complete moto x guide stickied in the general section for how to. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
---------- Post added at 11:46 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:45 AM ----------
Here,
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2603358
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
So, no one knows why downgrading bricks the device? I mean, I know it's because of the bootloader mismatch.....but that's unlocked so why is it being bricked? It seems "unlocked" is not really unlocked....I tried searching, is this efuse that's bricking the phone? If so, WTF? Why would they make something that destroys your phone?
Arak-Nafein said:
So, no one knows why downgrading bricks the device? I mean, I know it's because of the bootloader mismatch.....but that's unlocked so why is it being bricked? It seems "unlocked" is not really unlocked....I tried searching, is this efuse that's bricking the phone? If so, WTF? Why would they make something that destroys your phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its just how it is. These aren't nexus phones. They made the 4.4.2 bootloader in a way that if you downgrage, then most commonly try to upgrade again...by ota for sure anyway, boom. Brick.. I'm sure it wasnt made that way intentionally. Personally I just think phone companies just don't care or support what we do. So they don't create anything thinking in terms of rooting and flashing this or that. Its not their concern....since 98 percent of their customers update their unmodified phones over ota and thats it.
Have to remember we're an extremely small percentage of phone users. They aren't even thinking of us when they make stuff. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
kj2112 said:
Its just how it is. These aren't nexus phones. They made the 4.4.2 bootloader in a way that if you downgrage, then most commonly try to upgrade again...by ota for sure anyway, boom. Brick.. I'm sure it wasnt made that way intentionally. Personally I just think phone companies just don't care or support what we do. So they don't create anything thinking in terms of rooting and flashing this or that. Its not their concern....since 98 percent of their customers update their unmodified phones over ota and thats it.
Have to remember we're an extremely small percentage of phone users. They aren't even thinking of us when they make stuff. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yet, they made the developer edition.
I know this isn't a nexus device, but I was expecting nexus-like functionality with the dev edition bootloader unlocked, I know this is not the case now. (Although, you get most of the functionality)
Well, they make a "developer edition" that bricks when you try to downgrade. That seems counter-intuitive.
That's why I'm trying to find the technical details of what causes the brick. Why does it brick? What are they trying to protect? The boot partition? I don't understand the whole point of it or why it happens. Why make a developer edition if it gets bricked like a non-dev edition when flashing? This may have been already answered when the first dev phones came out, but I missed that train. I only upgrade my phone every 2 years or so and this is my first "dev edition" so it's all new to me. I've done a bit of reading, but nothing explicitly states what's cause the brick, just that "it happens". What's causing it?
My main reason for asking is just because I'm curious & would like to understand.
The second is, I'm wondering what happens when we stop getting updates. Will we be stuck on the last version of Android that is given to us?
Arak-Nafein said:
I know this isn't a nexus device, but I was expecting nexus-like functionality with the dev edition bootloader unlocked, I know this is not the case now.
Well, they make a "developer edition" that bricks when you try to downgrade. That seems counter-intuitive.
That's why I'm trying to find the technical details of what causes the brick. Why does it brick? What are they trying to protect? The boot partition? I don't understand the whole point of it or why it happens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt they meant it to be that way....it just turned out that way. And again, I doubt they care. Dev editions are just made to make more money. And keep up to competitors who make them. You keep your warranty, but other than that....nothing is special about them. ?
Why it works that way? Dunno. Lol
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Arak-Nafein said:
Yet, they made the developer edition.
I know this isn't a nexus device, but I was expecting nexus-like functionality with the dev edition bootloader unlocked, I know this is not the case now. (Although, you get most of the functionality)
Well, they make a "developer edition" that bricks when you try to downgrade. That seems counter-intuitive.
That's why I'm trying to find the technical details of what causes the brick. Why does it brick? What are they trying to protect? The boot partition? I don't understand the whole point of it or why it happens. Why make a developer edition if it gets bricked like a non-dev edition when flashing? This may have been already answered when the first dev phones came out, but I missed that train. I only upgrade my phone every 2 years or so and this is my first "dev edition" so it's all new to me. I've done a bit of reading, but nothing explicitly states what's cause the brick, just that "it happens". What's causing it?
My main reason for asking is just because I'm curious & would like to understand.
The second is, I'm wondering what happens when we stop getting updates. Will we be stuck on the last version of Android that is given to us?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to keep in mind, other than unlocking the bootloader, and Moto Maker customizations, the Developer Edition is the same as the "retail" edition phones except that you can get the unlock code from Moto for free without voiding your warranty and are stuck with the black front, woven white back, and silver accents.
Order a Verizon X via Moto Maker, its an XT1060, order a Dev Edition for Verizon its an XT1060, and they use the same Rom/SBF/FXZ files. GSM side, the "Unlocked GSM" model that comes with a T-Mobile SIM is an XT1053, a GSM Dev Edition is a XT1053, and again, they use the same rom/sbf/fxz. Did moto do this to "save cost" maybe?
The Dev Editions are unlocked just enough to allow you to flash stuff not signed by Moto. That is it. Moto makes no promises that you can successfully downgrade, or anything. If you have a Dev Edition and brick it, its covered under warranty.
As for why it works this way, only Moto knows. We can only speculate, guess and such, which was done in a big long thread that has since disappeared (not sure why it disappeared). Beyond that, we can only relay the cautions we know of, and tell you how it works based on the experience of several people. I'm sorry if that is not enough. If you want the real answer, you'l have to call Moto directly, or see if you can post on G+ tagging some of the Moto people, but they likely wont tell you.
I can tell you this.. My Moto Xoom was unlocked, needed no code to do so, and was virtually "un-brickable." The X does not work that same way. I can only GUESS why. (carrier request maybe? something else?)
KidJoe said:
You have to keep in mind, other than unlocking the bootloader, and Moto Maker customizations, the Developer Edition is the same as the "retail" edition phones except that you can get the unlock code from Moto for free without voiding your warranty and are stuck with the black front, woven white back, and silver accents.
Order a Verizon X via Moto Maker, its an XT1060, order a Dev Edition for Verizon its an XT1060, and they use the same Rom/SBF/FXZ files. GSM side, the "Unlocked GSM" model that comes with a T-Mobile SIM is an XT1053, a GSM Dev Edition is a XT1053, and again, they use the same rom/sbf/fxz. Did moto do this to "save cost" maybe?
The Dev Editions are unlocked just enough to allow you to flash stuff not signed by Moto. That is it. Moto makes no promises that you can successfully downgrade, or anything. If you have a Dev Edition and brick it, its covered under warranty.
As for why it works this way, only Moto knows. We can only speculate, guess and such, which was done in a big long thread that has since disappeared (not sure why it disappeared). Beyond that, we can only relay the cautions we know of, and tell you how it works based on the experience of several people. I'm sorry if that is not enough. If you want the real answer, you'l have to call Moto directly, or see if you can post on G+ tagging some of the Moto people, but they likely wont tell you.
I can tell you this.. My Moto Xoom was unlocked, needed no code to do so, and was virtually "un-brickable." The X does not work that same way. I can only GUESS why. (carrier request maybe? something else?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Argh, so frustrating! Now I REALLY wanna see that thread. XDA isn't archived on the wayback machine is it?
Arak-Nafein said:
Argh, so frustrating! Now I REALLY wanna see that thread. XDA isn't archived on the wayback machine is it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the thread was cached in google at one point, now its not, it only comes up with link to XDA but when you click on it, XDA says the thread does not exist.
See the OP here -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/informative-thread-t2658742
People that REALLY love flashing and tinkering.....need a nexus. Bottom line. Nothing else compares....today anyway.
As much as I LOVED my X....this is why my wife has it now and i have the N5.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
kj2112 said:
People that REALLY love flashing and tinkering.....need a nexus. Bottom line. Nothing else compares....today anyway.
As much as I LOVED my X....this is why my wife has it now and i have the N5.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If Verizon would allow it I would have already done it.
I did some more reading, it appears it all comes from motoboot.img(motoboot partition) & gpt.bin("partition" partition). As long as you don't mess with those & their respective partitions you shouldn't have to worry about bricking your phone. You can still access & read/write the boot partition & the system partition & everything else when unlocked. The OTAs will modify these (And check for certain versions of these) which can leave you in a nasty catch-22 situation & thus the brick. It's not the actual downgrade that bricks it, it's the security from the OTAs that error out & leave you stranded. You can still flash the OTA if you do it manually & leave out the bootloader stuff.(EDIT: This isn't entirely true) You can flash any other ROM because they don't have the built in security like the OTAs. So, if you flip over to an AOSP or CM ROM or anything not based on Motos stuff you needn't worry about nazi bootloaders & OTAs bricking your device. The only problem with going to those ROMs is the loss of Active Display & Touchless control. I'm guess Moto isn't releasing anything on the X8?
Does this sound correct? That's what I've collected from my readings. Feel free to correct me.
Arak-Nafein said:
If Verizon would allow it I would have already done it.
I did some more reading, it appears it all comes from motoboot.img & gpt.bin. As long as you don't mess with those & their respective partitions you shouldn't have to worry about bricking your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've said before....and I stand by it. Downgrading from 4.4.2 on any moto x is like playing russian roulette. And I simply say, don't. Lol
But.....its each person's phone and they can do what they want with it. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
kj2112 said:
I've said before....and I stand by it. Downgrading from 4.4.2 on any moto x is like playing russian roulette. And I simply say, don't. Lol
But.....its each person's phone and they can do what they want with it. ��
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That kinda came out wrong and I've tried to edit my post to better explain it.
The motoboot.img & the gpt.bin go together. For example, if you are on 4.4, you can manually flash all the parts except the motoboo.img & gpt.bin from 4.4.2 and it will work, and you'll retain the dowgradability of 4.4. But, you're setting yourself up for disaster should you accept an OTA (Which will be looking for the updated motoboot.img & gpt.bin. gpt.bin will be updated, but the bootloader will fail. This leaves you with a mismatched motoboot.img & gpt.bin and boom brick on next restart.)
You're right tho, it's best not to play with that. Unless you disable Motos OTA & treat it like a ROM that you have to return to stock before taking an OTA.
The bootloader is unlocked....but Motorola's software has built-in checks that only allow it to overwrite a specific version (cumulative changes?).
At least, that's the way I understand it. I'm probably way wrong here.
Hi, I got an AT&T XT1058 from ebay. I'm in teh UK so I'd really like to flash it with a stock UK ROM. I've had a look on here and with the huge amount of info I can't figure out if this is possible and which rom to use. it's 4.4.2 that's on the phone at teh moment which i believe can't be downgraded or unlocked easily, is that right?
any help would be greatly appreciated
cheers
To flash any Rom besides the Stock, Signed Moto ROM for your carrier and model X, you need to unlock the bootloader.
While Moto doesn't give out the Bootloader Unlock Code for the ATT USA XT1058, since you have 4.4.2 on it still, you should be able to use Sunshine to unlock the bootloader. (NOTE: please boot into fastboot/bootloader on the phone, and verify the version on the 2nd line is 30.B4 which is correct for 4.4.2).
Once you use sunshine, you can flash 3rd party recoveries, roms, etc.
While I have NOT done it, I've seen posts of ATT US Xt1058 owners flashing with Parts of the XT1053 rom to remove bloat, etc. (flashing the modems will likely change which wireless bands the phone can connect to). I do not advise flashing another carrier's rom. It could get messy, especially around UPDATE time. And I've seen some lose Cellular and WIFI flashing the wrong modem files.
One final thing. The ATT US XT1058 is SIM/Carrier locked too. So in order to use a non-ATT SIM in it you'll need to obtain a SIM unlock code. You should be able to get this from any web site selling unlock codes on the internet.
KidJoe said:
To flash any Rom besides the Stock, Signed Moto ROM for your carrier and model X, you need to unlock the bootloader.
While Moto doesn't give out the Bootloader Unlock Code for the ATT USA XT1058, since you have 4.4.2 on it still, you should be able to use Sunshine to unlock the bootloader. (NOTE: please boot into fastboot/bootloader on the phone, and verify the version on the 2nd line is 30.B4 which is correct for 4.4.2).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hey, thanks for the very helpful response unfortunately i seem to have suffered from a bout of stupidity writing that and it's 4.4.4 that i've got on the phone! how does that affect things? also as an aside the sim is unlocked so i can use any sim so at least that's something...
thanks again
hardflipman said:
hey, thanks for the very helpful response unfortunately i seem to have suffered from a bout of stupidity writing that and it's 4.4.4 that i've got on the phone! how does that affect things? also as an aside the sim is unlocked so i can use any sim so at least that's something...
thanks again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To unlock the bootloader on the ATT XT1058 Moto X, there are only two possible ways..
The China Middleman thread (in the general section), although he only has codes for certain date range of phones (depends on the Assembly Date of your phone), BUT he has recently stopped responding again. There is no telling if/when it will start up again
Sunshine, which doesn't work with 4.4.4. However you can always try it since it wont charge you if it doesn't work. (i.e. it checks your phone, if it will work, if wont, it tells you and exits without charging you).
4.4.4 can't be temp rooted either.
So you are pretty much stuck stock ATT, and then just get it sim unlocked to use it with your carrier.
KidJoe said:
To unlock the bootloader on the ATT XT1058 Moto X, there are only two possible ways..
The China Middleman thread (in the general section), although he only has codes for certain date range of phones (depends on the Assembly Date of your phone), BUT he has recently stopped responding again. There is no telling if/when it will start up again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for the reply. I guess i'll give the china middleman a try. I'd really like to get rid of the ATT address book, the fact that it perpetually shows as 4g connection and have the phone speak to me in a not american accent!
cheers
the same here
at&t xt1058 with stock android 4.4.4 (ota updated from 4.4.2)
system version 212.44.26.ghost_att.ATT.en.US
build no KXA21.12-L1.26
been using this phone in Europe, Greece with another carriers SIM card
everything ok, except for the LTE bands (in Greece I need bands 3,7,20) and the AT&T bloatware i wanna remove
would like to root, but i'm not able to unlock via motorola's website
let me know if u had any success via the china middleman, or if u find another way
thanks
hardflipman said:
thanks for the reply. I guess i'll give the china middleman a try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
cxp7 said:
let me know if u had any success via the china middleman, or if u find another way
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said.. the China Middleman has stopped responding again.
KidJoe said:
As I said.. the China Middleman has stopped responding again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on Rogers xt1058 (16GB)
Is there any way (assuming I can unlock the BL) to get developer edition ROM?
MadPriest said:
I'm on Rogers xt1058 (16GB)
Is there any way (assuming I can unlock the BL) to get developer edition ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the Rogers XT1058, Moto does offer the Bootloader Unlock code for free from their web site -> https://motorola-global-portal.cust...e/bootloader/unlock-your-device-a/action/auth it will void your warranty
The GSM Dev Edtion is the XT1053. It has different radio/modem files, its hardware supports different bands (less LTE bands). I never recommend flashing another model's ROM as we have seen loss of cellular in some cases, where even flashing the original firmware back didn't fix.
Once you unlock your bootloader and root, you can remove and freeze any bloat on the phone (freezing is preferred because the next OTA might require it to be there).
KidJoe said:
Once you unlock your bootloader and root, you can remove and freeze any bloat on the phone (freezing is preferred because the next OTA might require it to be there).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the reply
I'm on 4.4.4, I understand there's no root for me
MadPriest said:
Thank you for the reply
I'm on 4.4.4, I understand there's no root for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only if you can't unlock your boot loader. But as I said, moto does give out the unlock codes on their web site for the Rogers xt1058
Also, without unlocking the boot loader, you can only flash the rom for your phone model and its carrier branding.
I see
Thank you for the answers
I knew the second part, was not sure about the first one.
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app
Hi i bought a Droid turbo 1 unlocked on eBay about year ago and i use it on metro pcs. I really wanting to root it so i can get rid of bloat ware. there are a lot of options and i am confused on which one to take? Thanks!
Version 6.0.1
Build# MCG24.251-5-5
darmentle said:
Hi i bought a Droid turbo 1 unlocked on eBay about year ago and i use it on metro pcs. I really wanting to root it so i can get rid of bloat ware. there are a lot of options and i am confused on which one to take? Thanks!
Version 6.0.1
Build# MCG24.251-5-5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If that's all you want root for, I would recommend not doing it. Use your launcher to go to the "app info" for the app you don't like and tap "disable."
TheSt33v said:
If that's all you want root for, I would recommend not doing it. Use your launcher to go to the "app info" for the app you don't like and tap "disable."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are other issue also Verizon apps on my phone that cause problems with the metro sim, the emergency alert system has mind of its own keeps giving me alerts for places i dont even live in, even when i disable all of the notification in the app setting, visual voice mail big issue start getting these random error text messages, spent hours trying to get my phone to send and receive picture still not working. Is it a pain in the ass to do? i jail broke one of my older Iphone just hooked it up to my pc .
darmentle said:
There are other issue also Verizon apps on my phone that cause problems with the metro sim, the emergency alert system has mind of its own keeps giving me alerts for places i dont even live in, even when i disable all of the notification in the app setting, visual voice mail big issue start getting these random error text messages, spent hours trying to get my phone to send and receive picture still not working. Is it a pain in the ass to do? i jail broke one of my older Iphone just hooked it up to my pc .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not really, especially if you're not concerned about passing safetynet, and judging from the nature of your request I'm assuming that you aren't. If your bootloader is already unlocked (I'm assuming you meant bootloader unlocked in your OP and not SIM unlocked), you can do it by following sections 2-3 of this guide: https://forum.xda-developers.com/droid-turbo/general/guide-how-to-unlock-bootloader-install-t3292684
TheSt33v said:
If your bootloader is already unlocked (I'm assuming you meant bootloader unlocked in your OP and not SIM unlocked), you can do it by following sections 2-3 of this guide: https://forum.xda-developers.com/droid-turbo/general/guide-how-to-unlock-bootloader-install-t3292684
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't assume that. I think he is saying carrier unlocked since he's using it on T-mobile network (MetroPCS) -- which doesn't matter as all Verizon LTE phones are carrier unlocked since 2012. (except for prepaid, but this was a postpaid phone).
darmentle said:
Hi i bought a Droid turbo 1 unlocked on eBay about year ago and i use it on metro pcs. I really wanting to root it so i can get rid of bloat ware. there are a lot of options and i am confused on which one to take? Thanks!
Version 6.0.1
Build# MCG24.251-5-5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All Verizon postpaid (contract) phones are now carrier unlocked as of 2012, due to agreement with the FCC for extra LTE bandwidth. Many eBay sellers will still say "unlocked" just because people remember how previously Verizon locked their phones to only work with Verizon. So, saying your Verizon phone is carrier unlocked/sim card unlocked is not really necessary, and implies you are saying "bootloader unlocked'.
IF it is bootloader unlocked, what is your status code on the bootloader screen? If your phone is already bootloader unlocked, will be very easy to root.
If your bootloader is NOT already unlocked, you are out of luck at this time. Sunshine does not yet work with the current firmware you have on the phone. It worked with all firmware from November 2015 until the most recent was released (March 2017), so you could have unlocked your Droid Turbo anytime prior to the most recent update (March 2017). Sunshine is working on an update, so all hope is not lost.
If you had stayed on the previous firmware, you could have unlocked the bootloader and rooted. (again, I'm assuming your bootloader is not unlocked.) Tell us the status code on the bootloader screen, and you will know for sure.
With Motorola phones you have to unlock the bootloader to root. I know people say, "But I just want root!". Gotta unlock the bootloader first. With other phones like LG, that can frequently be bypassed (LG G2, LG G3), but not with Motorola phones.
ChazzMatt said:
I wouldn't assume that. I think he is saying carrier unlocked since he's using it on T-mobile network (MetroPCS) -- which doesn't matter as all Verizon LTE phones are carrier unlocked since 2012. (except for prepaid, but this was a postpaid phone).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True. You know what they say about assuming...
TheSt33v said:
Not really, especially if you're not concerned about passing safetynet, and judging from the nature of your request I'm assuming that you aren't. If your bootloader is already unlocked (I'm assuming you meant bootloader unlocked in your OP and not SIM unlocked), you can do it by following sections 2-3 of this guide: https://forum.xda-developers.com/droid-turbo/general/guide-how-to-unlock-bootloader-install-t3292684
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have build number MCG24.251-5-5 and the guide says ??
1. Go to Settings -> About phone -> Build number. If it says SU4TL-44, SU4TL-49 or MCG24.251-5, skip to section 1 of this guide. If it says MCG24.251-5-5, you are probably out of luck. This guide will not work for you. If it says anything else, continue reading.
darmentle said:
i have build number MCG24.251-5-5 and the guide says ??
1. Go to Settings -> About phone -> Build number. If it says SU4TL-44, SU4TL-49 or MCG24.251-5, skip to section 1 of this guide. If it says MCG24.251-5-5, you are probably out of luck. This guide will not work for you. If it says anything else, continue reading.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Today i test sunshine on that version and it says pass ok??but on temproot process stocks???
Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk
You are in luck. Just released:
From @jcase:
[Root && Unlock] Droid Turbo 6.0.1 mcg24.251-5-5
https://forum.xda-developers.com/dr...t-unlock-droid-turbo-6-0-1-mcg24-251-t3639618
---------- Post added at 10:50 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:34 AM ----------
darmentle said:
Hi i bought a Droid turbo 1 unlocked on eBay about year ago and i use it on metro pcs. I really wanting to root it so i can get rid of bloat ware. there are a lot of options and i am confused on which one to take? Thanks!
Version 6.0.1
Build# MCG24.251-5-5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your bootloader is still locked and you have Droid Turbo 6.0.1 MCG24.251-5-5 you can now unlock your bootloader with Sunshine app after using that temp method above.
thanks for the help i will give it a try when i get home tomarrow.
darmentle said:
thanks for the help i will give it a try when i get home tomarrow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Guide is now updated for -5-5.
I disconnected the battery also for 30 mins still stuck in the boot loop and idea?
Step 9 my phone will not come out of the endless boot loop i have hooked up to pc and command fastboot oem config fsg-id "" said okay finished total time 0.014 , then i went to restart phone and it boot loop of death?
9. !!!FOR MCG24.251-5-5 ONLY!!! Sunshine will reboot your phone automatically, and it will go into a bootloop. This is normal. Don't panic. Hold down the volume down button until the phone goes into bootloader mode. Plug your phone into the computer, start Minimal ADB and Fastboot (see Section 0 for link if you didn't have to install it before this point), and enter the command fastboot oem config fsg-id "". This will disable the temporary root exploit. Reboot your phone normally, and everything should be happy again.