And I've spent the past 1-2 hours reading around 50-ish threads and several hundred posts, and while I'm sure I already know the answer to this question I'm still going to ask it outright.
The specifics:
AT&T XT1058 pure stock Moto X running Android KitKat 4.4.4 as up to date as possible.
Is it rooted? NO
Is the bootloader unlocked? NO
Now, based on those two facts, and after reading all about SunShine (which is pretty awesome so thanks for that one, jcase and the crew that developed it), it seems if I want root then my only potential option at this point in time is "The Chinese Guy" if he's still in business to get a proper bootloader unlock which of course opens this device up entirely to whatever I might care to do.
Honestly the only reasons I care about root access would be for Titanium Backup (since I did purchase that in the past so it's like if I can't make full use of the app itself (because it requires root access to really do everything it's capable of doing) the money was more or less just given away for nothing, and a few other apps that require root level privilege (ES File Explorer root access, a few Wi-Fi tools, that's about it).
Of course, having the fully unlocked bootloader would let me play around with ROMs, kernels, and whatever I damned well please.
So the actual question I hinted at with the beginning of this post is:
For the moment, am I correct in the belief that my only option at all at this time meaning today and into the immediate foreseeable future to do anything with this device is "The Chinese Guy" ... if I want to be able to do more things with the device?
This is my second Moto X, the first one was the trial offer I took advantage of for a penny and I did enjoy the device while I had it, so when I got the chance to get one for free earlier today (traded a laptop for it that was also given to me) I jumped at it.
I understand that with 4.4.4 on it I can't roll back to any previous version, sadly, and that since SunShine requires root to even test the device (the temp root thing, ain't happening) that's a dead end leaving "The Chinese Guy" again as the only potential.
Just looking for a confirmation, that's all.
Thanks...
Yes, on the XT1058 from ATT with 4.4.4 on it, that is the latest rom/update, you can't downgrade (without risk of bricking the phone) and the China Middleman is the only hope of unlocking your bootloader and/or rooting. (to be clear, I mean the China Middleman doesn't actually root your phone, but once bootloader unlocked you will be able to root)
And yes, having an unlocked bootloader is the only way to flash any rom that isn't the stock Moto rom for the ATT XT1058.
And yes, Sunshine wont work since you can't even temp root 4.4.4.
I am not aware of any new root processes for 4.4.4 with locked bootloader coming, or ways to make Sunshine work on 4.4.4. If something newer is coming, it either wasn't announced yet, or I missed the announcement.
That being said, since it sounds like you got this phone used, rather than new.. who knows what the original owner did to it.. If it was someone who followed these boards, there is a SLIGHT chance they were trying to be tricky, and upgraded only parts of your phone to 4.4.4. Boot into FastbootAp/Bootloader mode, and check the version (second line from the top). If it is 30.B7, you're fully on 4.4.4 and you are stuck. If your bootloader is not 30.B7, then you might have a chance to downgrade your rom safely, and then use sunshine (post the version if its not 30.B7)
Thanks for the info, and yes the bootloader is 30.B7 (2014-06-23). Oh well... it is most definitely used but still in excellent condition (just some cosmetic scrapes and scuffs on the rubberized corners of the back cover). It's a good phone, a solid one, so I'll hang on to it for the time being, just need to get the carrier unlocked for use with T-Mobile but that'll be after the first of November.
It's a Moto X for free, I suppose I really shouldn't complain.
Just hit up jcase on IRC, who makes Sunshine. He's currently working on supporting XT1058 with 4.4.4 -- I have the same one, with the same bootloader. Wait a bit. Looks like he usually publishes stuff every few months. I think we may have an early Christmas gift. Well, it will cost us $25, though.
If he's able to do it then I'll look into it at that time, I may just offload this for a profit, not really sure at the moment. The camera is really depressing, was just outside taking some images here in downtown Las Vegas because we have this huge music festival this weekend (www.lifeisbeautiful.com) and the picture quality is just utterly abysmal - I tried the latest updated Motorola Camera app, Focal, Google Camera, and several others and they all just can't make the actual physical camera do anything decent. Exposures are always wrong, focus is seemingly permanently soft, there's no sharpness at all to most anything regardless of the lighting conditions, etc.
I could ramble on forever but, again it was free so I guess I'll shut up.
I had no idea that I posted something illegal my bad
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk
I used the Chinese guy to unlock, and haven't looked back. I still run Stock w/ Root, and was worth the $45 to not worry about it anymore. If your gonna keep it, get the unlock code.
Well that Chinese middleman isn't responding to contacts by anyone at the moment so that's a dead end and this one was built on 11-11-2013 so he'd probably not be able to get me one anyway. I just got the carrier unlock code last night and used it without issues. I put it on craigslist along with the Motorola Skip I had and never used, maybe someone will want it. It's still a great phone, but for me, the lack of being able to root it or most anything else makes it basically not something I really need these days. I have a "dumbphone" that works fine and has done so for many years.
Thanks for the info and suggestions, peeps...
Related
Yes, I know this has been beaten to death, but I have also found myself in the "which one" boat. Has anyone else been torn and made the decision? how do you feel about your choice? thoughts?
I don't like the color scheme of the dev edition, but i like the concept of ensured root and custom ROMs, if development picks up pace. That being said, I get the impression that CM and other non-stock roms lose the beautiful features of touchless control and active notifications. Is this still true? If so, is there hope for it in the future? Is there any real advantage to the DE other than not having to wait for a root exploit? I'm currently very happy on eclipse, but i did find myself frustrated while waiting for a 4.4 root exploit. Anyway, just looking to get some general impressions on whose happy with having chosen one or the other and why. And also, if you've tried DE-only ROMS, which ones and what you thought of them.
Thanks XD
MikeyNick said:
Yes, I know this has been beaten to death, but I have also found myself in the "which one" boat. Has anyone else been torn and made the decision? how do you feel about your choice? thoughts?
I don't like the color scheme of the dev edition, but i like the concept of ensured root and custom ROMs, if development picks up pace. That being said, I get the impression that CM and other non-stock roms lose the beautiful features of touchless control and active notifications. Is this still true? If so, is there hope for it in the future? Is there any real advantage to the DE other than not having to wait for a root exploit? I'm currently very happy on eclipse, but i did find myself frustrated while waiting for a 4.4 root exploit. Anyway, just looking to get some general impressions on whose happy with having chosen one or the other and why. And also, if you've tried DE-only ROMS, which ones and what you thought of them.
Thanks XD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's much easier to root the DEV, but both can be http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2603358
I fought this very same thing ... Really not into a two-toned phone LOL
But after playing with the Moto Maker site and seeing my custom 32GB ebony/black/silver device was the same exact price as a dev edition device, I promptly removed the custom device from my cart and got the dev edition. I know I will root, not necessarily ROM, so why not take the path of least resistance? Also, I'll definitely be getting a case so there's a good chance that eventually all those customizations will be hidden anyway.
Just my $0.02
Note 3 .... that is all!!
I got a 16gig retail "black woven" Demo X from Verizon in early Sept that I used for two months. This was the first phone in a long while that I didn't use a case for. It felt great in my hand. I didn't drop it. And after using it, I saw little need to root. Tethering was the biggest draw for root, along with blocking ads.
I've never been a fan of alternate ROMs. The ones I've tried on past phones always had bugs or issues, got updated frequently, etc. I spent more time "debugging" and "flashing" my phone than actually using it. With its stock ROM, the X just works and is so close to stock android that I don't want to mess that up with a custom rom. So I haven't really looked into the availability of the custom Moto X features (like active display, voice control, etc)
In early Nov when it came time to send the demo back, I opted to purchase the Dev Edition X for Verizon. At the time it was way more expensive, voided the warranty to unlock the bootloader, but the only 32gig option for Verizon, and most important to me was the ability to root without waiting on an exploit. When the Kit Kat root came out so fast, I was kind of kicking myself for not just using an upgrade and getting the Retail X. BUT.. seeing how involved the SlapMyMoto & MotoWpNoMo processes are compared to rooting the Dev Edition X, I felt better about my purchase. With the Dev X, its just flash TWRP recovery, boot into it and install SuperSU no matter what version stock ROM you are running. There is also the unknown of the 4.4.2 update coming, what is needed to install it if you've rooted with SlapMyMoto, and how to re-root if you have a locked boot loader. That wont be a problem with the Dev Ed. And recently Moto changed their policy about unlocking the Dev Edition bootloader, it no longer voids the warranty, and they re-instated the warranties which also makes me feel better.
I wouldn't say I'm a "fan" of the Dev Ed backing, either color or its slipperiness. The texture of the black woven demo I had was different/better. I have dropped my Dev X at home (on the carpet thankfully). To solve the lack of grip, I got one of those XtremeGuard full body kits when they were on sale for like $2.50 including shipping. I've only put the back on my phone and it has helped. I also have a SUPCASE and a Minisuit Clipster The cases do cover up the back, so had I opted for a MotoMaker, I wouldn't see its back when in the case. While both cases do alter the size and feel a little, its not enough to make me not use the case.
In the end, its up to you. Ease of Root and Write Protection Enable, Possibility of running 3rd party ROMs (which may cost you the Moto X features) vs custom colors and trim which might get covered by a case anyway, and may be less slippery without a case, and uncertainty of rooting.
Oh, and you can still use safe strap to run a few "custom" roms on the motomaker X.
I had the same struggle then concluded that I know I'll put a case on it and I know I hate bloatware, google included, and will want to remove it so I chose the developer edition...
Make life easier on yourself and go with the Dev Edition. You have guaranteed control of your phone.
ROMing on this phone is almost pointless with GravityBox being able to customize almost anything you'd get on a custom ROM anyway, as long as you can root. That makes the Dev edition not as important, but it also means root is required and that is only guaranteed with the Dev edition.
Sent from my XT1060
I got a Moto Maker version, and while I love the phone, I do sorta regret not getting a Dev Edition. I haven't bothered to root my phone, since this phone is so fantastic on its own (and I figured out how to restore app data), but it would be nice to unlock the bootloader in case I wanted to try some ROMs.
That being said, personally, I think stock Moto X is superior to CyanogenMod (which I have on other devices). And there isn't any real bloatware (since you can always Disable it).
Bought a MotoMaker and don't regret not opting for the Dev Edition at all. The root process wasn't difficult at all. If you think that it was, stop using toolkits. I'm not a developer nor do I work in the IT industry, I'm just a tech geek like most people here. Knowing how to use adb and fastboot has saved my ass many times
Ha, well the funny thing is, I AM a developer, so part of me likes the crazy exploits that came out for the Moto X. But I'm getting to a point in my life where, between work, a relationship, and all the little things in between, time is an increasingly rare commodity. When the telnet root exploit came out, I was like "wow, what a wizard to have figured that out!", and it was kind of fun, but then especially having to do it again on 4.4, reading about, setting up, and actually executing the exploit can be time consuming. It's not challenging, just time consuming. Why spend an hour or two doing that when I could spend 10 minutes flashing SU in twrp? Also, when 4.4 came out, I found myself checking the forum daily for a new root exploit, reading up on things, and overall just being very anxious for it. Again, that's time I could have spent doing other things if I had had the DE.
Thus, as it has been with many other decisions in my life, I will have to go the path of function over form. I am pretty set on getting the DE now (unless in the next couple days a Droid 5 is confirmed XD miss my physical keyboard). I'll just get that SUPCASE that was posted above, as I think the black/black variant looks rather nice, and will cover up the white that I don't like. Plus, there's an excuse for protecting my phone, eh?
Even if I just end up running Eclipse on it anyway, I think I like knowing that when 4.4.2 and eventually other versions of android come out, I will be able to root immediately and easily. And if custom roms continue to make progress, I'll have those options as well.
Plus, I was also reading there's a tutorial for removing the backplate, and backplates have shown up on ebay.
DogzOfWar said:
I got a Moto Maker version, and while I love the phone, I do sorta regret not getting a Dev Edition. I haven't bothered to root my phone, since this phone is so fantastic on its own (and I figured out how to restore app data), but it would be nice to unlock the bootloader in case I wanted to try some ROMs.
That being said, personally, I think stock Moto X is superior to CyanogenMod (which I have on other devices). And there isn't any real bloatware (since you can always Disable it).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi there - I have a DE on the way and my wife has a Moto Maker on the way. What's the best way to restore app data on an MM device?
rsage said:
Hi there - I have a DE on the way and my wife has a Moto Maker on the way. What's the best way to restore app data on an MM device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is my article in how to restore without root.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2604423
Sent from my XT1060 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
MikeyNick said:
t's not challenging, just time consuming. Why spend an hour or two doing that when I could spend 10 minutes flashing SU in twrp?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it takes "you" an hour or two to root this phone, it's probably best that "you" not attempt it yourself. It's as simple as downloading a few files, reading some instructions, then typing them in letter for letter.
If you have enough time to browse and post on this forum, you have enough time to root this device. Took me all of 15 mins.
rsage said:
Hi there - I have a DE on the way and my wife has a Moto Maker on the way. What's the best way to restore app data on an MM device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Moto Migrate.
nhizzat said:
Moto Migrate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I know, MM only migrates photos, videos, texts, calls, etc., but not app data like saved games, shared preferences, etc. I could be wrong, haven't tried it
nhizzat said:
If it takes "you" an hour or two to root this phone, it's probably best that "you" not attempt it yourself. It's as simple as downloading a few files, reading some instructions, then typing them in letter for letter.
If you have enough time to browse and post on this forum, you have enough time to root this device. Took me all of 15 mins.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless "you" simply look at commands and then type them, i don't think that's a 15 minute process. I think it is safe to assume that a majority of people like to understand the risk of a new root exploit. You're telling me when the telnet exploit came out for the very first time, it took you 15 minutes? I for one like to read about the potential risks, how the exploit works (best to stay informed, eh?), others' experiences with it thus far, etc. I don't think that's an atypical pattern. Yea, now that I've read about it and already know it, I can brush through a re-root quite quickly, but unless you're just going into a blind I don't think running a new exploit is a 15 minute process in most cases.
Sorry if that sounded a little disgruntled. I just couldn't help but get a "you don't seem good enough to muss about with your phone" vibe from that. Perhaps I should have been a little more particular, and mentioned that i was thinking more along the lines of the first time you run a new root exploit.
I battled myself on this for a while and ended up going with the dev edition. I couldn't decide on what color scheme I wanted so I said f it and went dev.
Note 2 N3BULIZED!
sonofevil77 said:
I battled myself on this for a while and ended up going with the dev edition. I couldn't decide on what color scheme I wanted so I said f it and went dev.
Note 2 N3BULIZED!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're going to be a happy camper
Sent from my XT1060 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Haven't ordered yet, and now maybe reconsidering all together after the lenovo news.
MikeyNick said:
Haven't ordered yet, and now maybe reconsidering all together after the lenovo news.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Lenovo deal wouldn't stop me. I went through the IBM PC division sold to Lenovo, and have been using Thinkpads since about 1995. They haven't screwed up the Thinkpads after all this time, so I'm hopeful they don't screw up the Moto devices.
Yea, I've been doing a lot of reading on it. Strong arguments on both sides. Either way, I suppose even if they do muss about with stuff, we'll definitely get 4.4.2. Who knows if future updates might have some bloat on them, or how long it'll take to get them. But with the developer edition, I guess that's much less of a concern. Plus, considering how popular this phone has been, it's hard to believe anyone would want to drop good support for it.
Still have till the third to decide, since that's when my code is valid through XD
Hi, I'm about to upgrade from a ****ty Galaxy SII Skyrocket to this device, and I'm wondering if there's any known issues, like GPS lag, cell service not working, those sorts of things. I know how to use adb and android (was a dev for the HTC One V), but if there's something *special* with this phone, I'd like to know ahead of time.
Thanks!
~123386761
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
Just browse the general and Q&A sections for discussion on certain things.
Some have issues with whatever and some don't. Best to read for yourself. ?
If you want full root, stay away from Verizon, at&t and Republic Wireless. With those you can't unlock the bootloader. If you get something with 4.4.3 or less on it, you can PAY for a bootloader unlock, maybe it will work. If you are on 4.4.4, There's no root for locked bootloaders on those 3 carriers. And no temp roots either.
That's the biggest thing to know in advance.
Thanks for the tip! I looked around the QnA and saw how some can't unlock the boot loader. That must suck. The model I'm getting is T-Mobile OEM factory unlocked (so I can use my provider, Immix) so I should be able to get the unlock code very easily from Motorola. I saw something about a camera update, what's that about?
Sent from my Nexus 7
123386761 said:
Thanks for the tip! I looked around the QnA and saw how some can't unlock the boot loader. That must suck. The model I'm getting is T-Mobile OEM factory unlocked (so I can use my provider, Immix) so I should be able to get the unlock code very easily from Motorola. I saw something about a camera update, what's that about?
Sent from my Nexus 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, you should be able to unlock the bootloader. A warning tho... It does technically void the warranty.
The camera is average... Tho even the best camera phones out there are mediocre and generally no where near as good as even a very cheap camera camera. Personally, I'd never let the performance of a phone camera play into my decision to buy which phone.
The best way to ensure good pics when you know in advance you are going to be taking pics... Is bring a camera. Phone cameras are always going to disappoint when it matters most.
That's just my opinion though. My phone is just a camera for those spur of the moment times... And my expectations are low... But at least I got something. ?
I'm okay with voiding the warranty, since I almost never have any hardware issues, and software issues are (almost) always fixable.
Sent from my Nexus 7
Best phone I've ever owned. Stock, locked. Unrooted
I have missed my nexus 5 ever since i gave it up for the s5 and now the g4.
Anybody else gonna switch when the new nexus comes out?
gsfesz said:
I have missed my nexus 5 ever since i gave it up for the s5 and now the g4.
Anybody else gonna switch when the new nexus comes out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just my 2 cents worth, but I would actually wait until the Sprint update ZV6 (releasing now), see if it fixes the lag/touch and other issues we are experiencing. I am confident we will eventually have an unlocked bootloader, but as long as we don't lose our root method -it really isn't required since i'd rather run a stock modified anyway (for myself at least).
Rumors show it to be less of a phone than the G4. If it was equal I would have considered it.
Smaller Screen, no rear buttons, no laser focus, no spectrum analyzer, no SD card, lower res camera, less RAM, Non removable battery.
It does add two tone flash like HTC phones (better white balance). But I love what G4 does in that space, Auto White Balance is amazing on G4.
G4 doesn't feel like a phablet, but has the screen of one.
---------- Post added at 03:00 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:52 PM ----------
Agimax said:
Just my 2 cents worth, but I would actually wait until the Sprint update ZV6 (releasing now), see if it fixes the lag/touch and other issues we are experiencing. I am confident we will eventually have an unlocked bootloader, but as long as we don't lose our root method -it really isn't required since i'd rather run a stock modified anyway (for myself at least).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't feel lag/touch. However I did HAVE to remove my screen protector, that was definitely messing it up (never happened on any phone prior). The phone feels zipper than my HTC M9.
I'm not confident at all we'll get an unlocked bootloader. I think carriers won't allow it. Just like Verizon blocks unlockable HTC phones. Things are moving towards more lockdown, not away.
Might see it on T-Mobile or something.
Also I looked at the unlock procedure for the European models. First step is enter Bootloader. I can't, it zips right past it. Maybe I'm doing something dumb.
Also I'm not saying an update would allow entering the bootloader.
Someone also posted a chat with LG on this topic that there is some technical reason it's not possible to do on the non European models. That's might be B.S.
mswlogo said:
Rumors show it to be less of a phone than the G4. If it was equal I would have considered it.
Smaller Screen, no rear buttons, no laser focus, no spectrum analyzer, no SD card, lower res camera, less RAM, Non removable battery.
It does add two tone flash like HTC phones (better white balance). But I love what G4 does in that space, Auto White Balance is amazing on G4.
G4 doesn't feel like a phablet, but has the screen of one.
---------- Post added at 03:00 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:52 PM ----------
I don't feel lag/touch. However I did HAVE to remove my screen protector, that was definitely messing it up (never happened on any phone prior). The phone feels zipper than my HTC M9.
I'm not confident at all we'll get an unlocked bootloader. I think carriers won't allow it. Just like Verizon blocks unlockable HTC phones. Things are moving towards more lockdown, not away.
Might see it on T-Mobile or something.
Also I looked at the unlock procedure for the European models. First step is enter Bootloader. I can't, it zips right past it. Maybe I'm doing something dumb.
Also I'm not saying an update would allow entering the bootloader.
Someone also posted a chat with LG on this topic that there is some technical reason it's not possible to do on the non European models. That's might be B.S.[/QUO
Yeah im not very confident we will see a bootloader unlock, if they would have let us unlock it from the get go we would have fantastic aosp roms already, i willing to take the compromise of a nexus in lieu of stock android and bootloader unlock right out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agimax said:
I am confident we will eventually have an unlocked bootloader, but as long as we don't lose our root method -it really isn't required since i'd rather run a stock modified anyway (for myself at least).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even if all the US carriers allowed the bootloader to be unlocked this instance without voiding your warranty it still would not matter. There doesn't seem to be that much interest with this phone in the modding/dev community. I doubt that will change because everyone is always waiting/looking out for the next big thing is it is doubt we will see a surge this late after it is released.
I am just keeping this phone to get used to the fact that rooting and modding phone is going to get increasingly difficult as time goes on. The good days are over
Really wish the One Plus One would give non-gsm some love.
We may never get an official unlock, i bet there will be a workaround of some sort just like the G, G2, G3. If not, this would be the first G series that doesn't get a recovery workaround. I've been working on the LG series from the start, not giving up now.
Just waiting on the new ZV6 update. We should also have M being their flagship.
My last phone was a Nexus 5 and I prefer the G4. The battery life is just way better and my extra batteries makes it sweeter. I do wish G4 has vanilla android, but the G4 is good enough.
centran said:
Even if all the US carriers allowed the bootloader to be unlocked this instance without voiding your warranty it still would not matter. There doesn't seem to be that much interest with this phone in the modding/dev community. I doubt that will change because everyone is always waiting/looking out for the next big thing is it is doubt we will see a surge this late after it is released.
I am just keeping this phone to get used to the fact that rooting and modding phone is going to get increasingly difficult as time goes on. The good days are over
Really wish the One Plus One would give non-gsm some love.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, most developers have chosen their phone for the season.
I had an HTC M9, just got it replaced and gave it to my wife. I really looked carefully (Spent way to much time). But this is one awesome phone. Assuming I don't run into reliability issues some folks have.
I see quite a few regrets in the XDA Samsung Forums which I monitored closely.
One plus about how we are rooted is, it won't void warranty (you can get it back to pure stock). Samsung you are screwed if you have an issue.
HTC you can relock and most techs won't care if it's relocked. If the tech saw S-Off on an HTC and knew what it was (some do) you'd be screwed.
I just used Ut-Oh to replace my M9 that had S-Off, so that's another plus.
Will be curious what HTC's next phone looks like. It has quite a distance to catch up. I'd much rather have wireless charging than a solid metal body.
I came from a S6 Edge 64gb which I got bored with and gave to my wife and got this phone. I think this phone is awesome. The S6 Edge doesn't have anything on this!
SD card support with removable battery were huge factors! The only downside is the locked bootloader with no TWRP support
I havent rooted a device before but the idea of getting rid of the bloatware that came on the phone and extending battery life as well as increasing performance is appealing to me.
Is your device rooted? and do you feel its worth it?
I also dont really know where to start with rooting it, I had a friend reccommend Kingoroot, but I am not sure which root is 'best' per se.
I also believe I need to unlock my bootloader...Not sure if it is unlocked already, it is a refurbished verizon unloicked phone.
Pardon my ignorance I am just getting into this stuff.
zwalk said:
I havent rooted a device before but the idea of getting rid of the bloatware that came on the phone and extending battery life as well as increasing performance is appealing to me.
Is your device rooted? and do you feel its worth it?
I also dont really know where to start with rooting it, I had a friend reccommend Kingoroot, but I am not sure which root is 'best' per se.
I also believe I need to unlock my bootloader...Not sure if it is unlocked already, it is a refurbished verizon unloicked phone.
Pardon my ignorance I am just getting into this stuff.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Hopefully you didn't do any updating. http://forum.xda-developers.com/droid-turbo/general/guide-how-to-unlock-bootloader-install-t3292684
Its on 5.1 currently and trying to get me to update I cleared my cache to get rid.of the update file
Wow that's a long and slightly intimidating process.
Hopefully the performance battery life and lack of bloat is worth it
I owned two XT1225 (the international version of the Droid Turbo) and won a FREE, NEW AT&T LG G4 last summer, when it was first released. (I'm on AT&T.) Stayed in the box. The LG G4 is an excellent phone, but just doesn't hit all the cumulative features of the Quark. I even bought a Qi wireless back plate for the LG G4, to enable that feature -- but still never used the phone.
Sold it on eBay a few months ago and bought a 3rd XT1225 to keep as backup for me and my wife. So, yeah, it's worth it.
I love the phone. It's awesome, I'm just getting cold feet on the root. It's the first time I've tried it.
So the root makes a big difference?
zwalk said:
I love the phone. It's awesome, I'm just getting cold feet on the root. It's the first time I've tried it.
So the root makes a big difference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocking the phone lets you do the following things:
Remove bloat
Use the Xposed framework to customize your phone in almost any way you can imagine
Install custom roms, including roms that are a more recent version of Android than what Motorola slowly rolls out
Use security programs like Cerberus to give your phone remote commands if it is lost/stolen
Use battery optimization programs like Amplify and Greenify
Tweak your kernel to favor power over battery life, or vice versa
Other stuff that I can't think of right now
Another reason is to install a custom recovery (TWRP) after boot loader is unlocked. TWRP allows you to make a back up of everything on your phone.
It's worth it just to keep your phone relevant. Odds are we'll see android n with the unlocked boot loader I doubt we'll see it without
Sent from my DROID Turbo using XDA-Developers mobile app
There are youtube videos showing the Sunshine unlock, root, and TWRP process. It's really easy and takes only a few minutes.
The first phone I rooted was the Samsung Intercept back before all of the "One Click Root" apps came about. I had to mate it with my computer and run a long string of ADB commands. That's when I learned about Paths and Environmental Variables. Then installing ClockworkMod Recovery... You had to pull the battery out at a precise moment to get the recovery to stick before the first boot or else the phone reverted to stock recovery. But all of that hinged on if you got the Samsung drivers to work right. If that's wasn't intimidating, then I don't know what is.
Hello,
I am looking to purchase a Verizon Z3 (not the Play version that's available on amazon) and I was wondering if anyone knew which LTE bands are available? I will be using AT&T and I need Band 4 and Band 17 in my area. Can anyone confirm that the Verizon version of the Z3 has these? Thanks in advance.
MrBaltazar said:
Hello,
I am looking to purchase a Verizon Z3 (not the Play version that's available on amazon) and I was wondering if anyone knew which LTE bands are available? I will be using AT&T and I need Band 4 and Band 17 in my area. Can anyone confirm that the Verizon version of the Z3 has these? Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure of the answer to your actual question, but wanted to point out that based on the past moto devices and Verizon, that you'll be guaranteeing yourself a device who's bootloader you will never be able to unlock.
Just wanted to mention that, not sure if it matters to you. And possibly you're aware of this already too.
Hi,
you´ll find the specs here.
I think the phone will be locked to verizon inside the US and is only "Internationally unlocked".
you can use it outside the US with any carrier.
Sam_11 said:
Hi,
you´ll find the specs here.
I think the phone will be locked to verizon inside the US and is only "Internationally unlocked".
you can use it outside the US with any carrier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sam, are you sure, that this phone can be also used in Europe / Germany? I thought about getting it via eBay, but I have not yet found any reliable source for really knowing that it will be completely unlocked for all German carriers.
So I am still looking for the Chinese Z3 version with even 6GB RAM. So I would have the advantage to get the same specs as those of my Z2 Force, but with the profit of the amazing Z3 screen (I really dislike the Z2 Force's "plastic" screen). But so far, I have not found any source to order the Chinese Z3 version. Maybe, anybody else?
Buy from Motorola directly, unlocked for global use.
Don't install sim untill you unlock bootloader & Root is done. If the bands you are interested in using are not engaged then use qcom tool software to turn them on.
Maheshwara said:
Sam, are you sure, that this phone can be also used in Europe / Germany? I thought about getting it via eBay, but I have not yet found any reliable source for really knowing that it will be completely unlocked for all German carriers.
So I am still looking for the Chinese Z3 version with even 6GB RAM. So I would have the advantage to get the same specs as those of my Z2 Force, but with the profit of the amazing Z3 screen (I really dislike the Z2 Force's "plastic" screen). But so far, I have not found any source to order the Chinese Z3 version. Maybe, anybody else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can tell you in 2 weeks, i've bought one today.
Gesendet von meinem Moto Z (2) mit Tapatalk
Maheshwara said:
Sam, are you sure, that this phone can be also used in Europe / Germany? I thought about getting it via eBay, but I have not yet found any reliable source for really knowing that it will be completely unlocked for all German carriers.
So I am still looking for the Chinese Z3 version with even 6GB RAM. So I would have the advantage to get the same specs as those of my Z2 Force, but with the profit of the amazing Z3 screen (I really dislike the Z2 Force's "plastic" screen). But so far, I have not found any source to order the Chinese Z3 version. Maybe, anybody else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As an FYI, the Moto Z3 IS Locked to Verizon ONLY in the US, Bootloader is also LOCKED and I HATE THE PHONE! It 's a $480.00 BILLBOARD! Nothing but Ads, Ads, Ads! You can't unlock the booltoader (I tried), so you can't root it, no root no adblock. :crying: So if you don't mind spending $500 and having CONSTANT, FULL SCREEN, OBTRUSIVE ADS popup while your viewing something, then this is the phone for you!!
BTW, the screen is also plastic, so be certain to get yourself a Tempered Glass Screen protector as soon as you get the phone, because the screen scratches very easily!
I'll be selling mine on eBay very soon!
---------- Post added at 10:42 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:39 AM ----------
Mental1 said:
Buy from Motorola directly, unlocked for global use.
Don't install sim untill you unlock bootloader & Root is done. If the bands you are interested in using are not engaged then use qcom tool software to turn them on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FYI, can't unlock the bootloader, I tried to before I installed the sim, no go. the electronic serial number generated as the bootloader unlock code is set to VZW and CAN NOT BE UNLOCKED!:crying: I bought mine from Moto directly and it was shipped from China.
If you bought it directly from Motorola and it was shipped from China, so it's the 6GB RAM Version with ZUI Firmware?
wanb1i said:
As an FYI, the Moto Z3 IS Locked to Verizon ONLY in the US, Bootloader is also LOCKED and I HATE THE PHONE! It 's a $480.00 BILLBOARD! Nothing but Ads, Ads, Ads! You can't unlock the booltoader (I tried), so you can't root it, no root no adblock. :crying: So if you don't mind spending $500 and having CONSTANT, FULL SCREEN, OBTRUSIVE ADS popup while your viewing something, then this is the phone for you!!
BTW, the screen is also plastic, so be certain to get yourself a Tempered Glass Screen protector as soon as you get the phone, because the screen scratches very easily!
I'll be selling mine on eBay very soon!
---------- Post added at 10:42 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:39 AM ----------
FYI, can't unlock the bootloader, I tried to before I installed the sim, no go. the electronic serial number generated as the bootloader unlock code is set to VZW and CAN NOT BE UNLOCKED!:crying: I bought mine from Moto directly and it was shipped from China.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that sucks for you. I purchased my z3 play direct from Moto on a presale offer and it was not shipped from China. I used it for about 3 weeks before cracking the top 2 corners of the display from a "pop out of pocket, hit the blacktop and slid down my driveway" accident. Thanks to Moto's added warranty protection, they replaced it with a brand new in the box z3 play. So, before installing my Verizon sim, I setup the phone and used it on wifi for 2 days, also I never signed into Google, and made sure everything worked. This time being as F'n busy with my job and not having the time to modify it, I used the OCR service, paid the $$ and within a hour, unlocked bootloader and rooted. Once again, I used it for a day before finally installing my sim. I love the phone now and ripped through this ***** removing/adding apps and features to customize/personalize it to my liking. I have not installed the twrp recovery yet. That is next but as of now, not a single issue with anything. OCR, left me every file that was used for the unlock bootloader & Rooting process. If it helps anybody, I can upload what ever file anyone may need.
Sent using my Awesome ROOTED Moto Z3 Play
Maheshwara said:
If you bought it directly from Motorola and it was shipped from China, so it's the 6GB RAM Version with ZUI Firmware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, 4gb ram/64gb storage, Verizon Bloatware.
---------- Post added at 03:13 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:09 PM ----------
Mental1 said:
Well that sucks for you. I purchased my z3 play direct from Moto on a presale offer and it was not shipped from China. I used it for about 3 weeks before cracking the top 2 corners of the display from a "pop out of pocket, hit the blacktop and slid down my driveway" accident. Thanks to Moto's added warranty protection, they replaced it with a brand new in the box z3 play. So, before installing my Verizon sim, I setup the phone and used it on wifi for 2 days, also I never signed into Google, and made sure everything worked. This time being as F'n busy with my job and not having the time to modify it, I used the OCR service, paid the $$ and within a hour, unlocked bootloader and rooted. Once again, I used it for a day before finally installing my sim. I love the phone now and ripped through this ***** removing/adding apps and features to customize/personalize it to my liking. I have not installed the twrp recovery yet. That is next but as of now, not a single issue with anything. OCR, left me every file that was used for the unlock bootloader & Rooting process. If it helps anybody, I can upload what ever file anyone may need.
Sent using my Awesome ROOTED Moto Z3 Play
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, that's because it's a Z3 "PLAY", not a Z3 which is "LOCKED" to Verizon from the factory. :crying: Mine's on eBay if anyone want's to buy it.
Verizon bloatware is easily disabled. I've had no trouble with ads. Anyone who buys a Verizon phone should know they're usually not bootloader unlockable if you're sophisticated enough to consider unlocking it. My phone's working great so ymmv.
Mines from Verizon but it's unlocked out of the box. Yes the bootloader is locked, but I can use the phone with T-Mobile etc...
wanb1i said:
As an FYI, the Moto Z3 IS Locked to Verizon ONLY in the US, Bootloader is also LOCKED and I HATE THE PHONE! It 's a $480.00 BILLBOARD! Nothing but Ads, Ads, Ads! You can't unlock the booltoader (I tried), so you can't root it, no root no adblock. :crying: So if you don't mind spending $500 and having CONSTANT, FULL SCREEN, OBTRUSIVE ADS popup while your viewing something, then this is the phone for you!!
BTW, the screen is also plastic, so be certain to get yourself a Tempered Glass Screen protector as soon as you get the phone, because the screen scratches very easily!
I'll be selling mine on eBay very soon!
---------- Post added at 10:42 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:39 AM ----------
FYI, can't unlock the bootloader, I tried to before I installed the sim, no go. the electronic serial number generated as the bootloader unlock code is set to VZW and CAN NOT BE UNLOCKED!:crying: I bought mine from Moto directly and it was shipped from China.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Umm, not sure where you're getting this all from?
I bought a Z3 from the Verizon store at $480 it is a steal for this caliber of phone. It is NOT LOCKED, I was able to use it on AT&T and T-Mobile with no issue. Only thing that happens is when you reboot the phone it says "Sim card not from Verizon". Just swipe on the notification and it disappears and does not come back unless you reboot. Any of the Verizon apps are easily disabled and I do not have any ads of any sort, a pretty close to pure android experience. If you have ads, maybe you have a Z3 play Amazon version? not sure if they even made one for z3. I'm so confused on where you're getting ads from?
Also the screen is definitely glass...also don't know where you're getting this from. I also dropped my phone, no cracks, but display has a big blue spot on it. Was told that if there is no crack, it will be fixed for free. Even if they do find that there is physical damage, they will replace it for $150, which I think is more than reasonable. Just sent it off on the weekend so I'll find out soon. I wish there was a z3 force, would gladly deal with the plastic screen in order not to have to worry about it cracking. My Droid Turbo 2 was wonderful because of that.
Overall the z3 has been a great phone, the side fingerprint reader is awesome too. Was a bit worried about it, but got used to it pretty quick. Now that I sent mine in, I'm having to use my old Z droid, and realizing how a front fingerprint reader is not as convenient as a side one.
So I'm very curious, where did you find a Z3, that is locked, with ads and with a plastic screen? you sure you have a z3?
I have owned Verizon only version phones, from the Droid Turbo, Droid Turbo 2 and now the Z3, all of them have been able to work on any network as long as the bands match up, and I've been able to use them in many countries and in the US with no issue.
gbhsaturn said:
So I'm very curious, where did you find a Z3, that is locked, with ads and with a plastic screen? you sure you have a z3?.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the event you are unaware, there are malicious apps capable of displaying apps on a user's device. Being that Amazon only offers the Z3 Play, which is impossible to confuse with a VZ branded device, this leads credibility to this being the problem.
Reviewers seem to like the screen, so pethaps they have a different Moto phone altogether? Who knows. VZ carries other Moto devices.
Mental1 said:
Well that sucks for you. I purchased my z3 play direct from Moto on a presale offer and it was not shipped from China. I used it for about 3 weeks before cracking the top 2 corners of the display from a "pop out of pocket, hit the blacktop and slid down my driveway" accident. Thanks to Moto's added warranty protection, they replaced it with a brand new in the box z3 play. So, before installing my Verizon sim, I setup the phone and used it on wifi for 2 days, also I never signed into Google, and made sure everything worked. This time being as F'n busy with my job and not having the time to modify it, I used the OCR service, paid the $$ and within a hour, unlocked bootloader and rooted. Once again, I used it for a day before finally installing my sim. I love the phone now and ripped through this ***** removing/adding apps and features to customize/personalize it to my liking. I have not installed the twrp recovery yet. That is next but as of now, not a single issue with anything. OCR, left me every file that was used for the unlock bootloader & Rooting process. If it helps anybody, I can upload what ever file anyone may need.
Sent using my Awesome ROOTED Moto Z3 Play
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I need this info!!!!! Where did you get it done? I don't mind having to pay $$ for it... As long as it's not $$$$$$$$$$ lol
Lord_Worm said:
I need this info!!!!! Where did you get it done? I don't mind having to pay $$ for it... As long as it's not $$$$$$$$$$ lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One Click Root took care of everything from new "out of box" to Unlocked BL to Root all for less then 2 joints.
Mental1 said:
One Click Root took care of everything from new "out of box" to Unlocked BL to Root all for less then 2 joints.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info. I'll look into it. I'm wondering where to find a little guiding on this: I posted elsewhere in the forum, but I spoke directly with a Motorola rep and they confirmed I was shipped a factory firmware test model. I'm not even sure what that means exactly. I know that I have modified several system files and actually had them stick, and now I'm wondering if I can flash a different firmware, and be on a different software channel altogether without bricking my device. My ultimate goal is bootloader unlock and root, but alas, every thing I read online says otherwise. I still would like to humor the thought of a possibility @ unlocking my bootloader without any crazy bootstomp vulnerability exploit
Mental1 said:
One Click Root took care of everything from new "out of box" to Unlocked BL to Root all for less then 2 joints.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I find it terribly odd that it says that the Moto Z3 Play isn't a supported device. Are you sure you're telling the truth over there? Sounds almost gimmicky to me. No offense sir, but I literally just went through the process with them.
Lord_Worm said:
Thanks for the info. I'll look into it. I'm wondering where to find a little guiding on this: I posted elsewhere in the forum, but I spoke directly with a Motorola rep and they confirmed I was shipped a factory firmware test model. I'm not even sure what that means exactly. I know that I have modified several system files and actually had them stick, and now I'm wondering if I can flash a different firmware, and be on a different software channel altogether without bricking my device. My ultimate goal is bootloader unlock and root, but alas, every thing I read online says otherwise. I still would like to humor the thought of a possibility @ unlocking my bootloader without any crazy bootstomp vulnerability exploit
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Normally I do all my devices, cells, tabs and tv but I've been so busy I couldn't do any major research before attempting mental melt down. The one thing I can say is while watching it be done, they went directly through Moto site for the unlocking of the BL. After that the process from there was your standard adb & fb commands. Now they did download a "Official Firmware" file, flashed it, used Magisk, reflashed again and done. I read the same good & bad crap online as you and basically once you get it done , redo it your own way. The hard part is done, lol. It has been running great since done months ago. I made a change or two since then and still no issues. If I get a chance, I'll post the zip file they used and firmware pkg if it helps you.
Mental1 said:
Normally I do all my devices, cells, tabs and tv but I've been so busy I couldn't do any major research before attempting mental melt down. The one thing I can say is while watching it be done, they went directly through Moto site for the unlocking of the BL. After that the process from there was your standard adb & fb commands. Now they did download a "Official Firmware" file, flashed it, used Magisk, reflashed again and done. I read the same good & bad crap online as you and basically once you get it done , redo it your own way. The hard part is done, lol. It has been running great since done months ago. I made a change or two since then and still no issues. If I get a chance, I'll post the zip file they used and firmware pkg if it helps you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll take a picture of the boot up screens showing the unlocked bootloader and post them.