2013 Lollipop update didn't work? - Moto X Q&A

[solved]
Tried to update the phone to 5.1 OTA. I have unlocked bootloader, TWRP, Root, completely stock 4.4.4 TMO other than that. I flashed the stock recovery back, and I understand that the update will break root. Then I downloaded the OTA, and went to install. It began to install in stock recovery, then rebooted after just a few seconds. Got a message that says something like "sorry there was a problem updating your moto x no changes were made" I accidentally closed the window before writing down exactly what it said, but that was basically it. Any ideas?
Now the OTA isn't even available if I check for it in settings, which is a bummer, but I understand that's probably because of it being a soak test... I just want to be ready for it when it does become available again.
Any helps is appreciated!
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UPDATE: Solved on Reddit. For those who don't know, you can't flash an OTA if you have rooted, even if you haven't done anything with root. I didn't think this was the case, as it hasn't been an issue with different devices previously, but apparently that changed with lollipop.

rickathenrystuff said:
[solved]
Tried to update the phone to 5.1 OTA. I have unlocked bootloader, TWRP, Root, completely stock 4.4.4 TMO other than that. I flashed the stock recovery back, and I understand that the update will break root. Then I downloaded the OTA, and went to install. It began to install in stock recovery, then rebooted after just a few seconds. Got a message that says something like "sorry there was a problem updating your moto x no changes were made" I accidentally closed the window before writing down exactly what it said, but that was basically it. Any ideas?
Now the OTA isn't even available if I check for it in settings, which is a bummer, but I understand that's probably because of it being a soak test... I just want to be ready for it when it does become available again.
Any helps is appreciated!
------
UPDATE: Solved on Reddit. For those who don't know, you can't flash an OTA if you have rooted, even if you haven't done anything with root. I didn't think this was the case, as it hasn't been an issue with different devices previously, but apparently that changed with lollipop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you were part of the MFN soak test, you do acknowledge and agree to flashing back to 100% stock if you are rooted, when you accept entrance into the test.
Not being 100% stock HAS been an issue in the past. That is why this thread -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/general/faq-how-to-prepare-ota-update-carriers-t3126425 and its predecessors existed.

.
I never agreed to anything with this one. The update just showed up on my phone. I wasn't a part of the official soak test... Probably just part of the initial rollout/soak test/whatever-it's-called.
Regarding root being an issue before, that simply hasn't been the case for me previously, at least on different phones. It's always been understood that taking the ota would break root, but not that I had to remove root prior to taking it. Even the post you quoted indicates that... "You should expect to lose root when you take an OTA."
Regardless of what it was before, it's worth noting to future people who run in to this issue, that yes, you have to completely remove root in order to accept the ota.

rickathenrystuff said:
I never agreed to anything with this one. The update just showed up on my phone. I wasn't a part of the official soak test... Probably just part of the initial rollout/soak test/whatever-it's-called.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wasn't aware it was being sent out to anyone but those who were invited by the MFN yet... then again, I haven't been on as often lately and might have missed it.
rickathenrystuff said:
Regarding root being an issue before, that simply hasn't been the case for me previously, at least on different phones. It's always been understood that taking the ota would break root, but not that I had to remove root prior to taking it. Even the post you quoted indicates that... "You should expect to lose root when you take an OTA."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
{bold added by me} And that is the biggest issue we've seen... comparing what happened on other phones to the 2013 X...
I see it happen all too often.
And yes, those posts do say you should expect to lose root... but they also discuss the pre-flash validations, and that returning to stock is required.
rickathenrystuff said:
Regardless of what it was before, it's worth noting to future people who run in to this issue, that yes, you have to completely remove root in order to accept the ota.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, I completely agree.

Related

OTA 139.15.1 keep root

All,
Has anyone on Verizon done the OTA update and kept root? From what I've been reading, sounds like if you rooted with MotoRoot then you're okay, but not if you used PwnMyMoto.
As far as people getting a bootloop, that does make some sense because the recovery partition is really just the boot image... So I can flash the stock recovery to the recovery partition before running the update, and that should theoretically prevent a bootloop. However, if this is going to erase my root, then I don't want to do the update.
So, has anyone on verizon done the OTA and kept their root? How did you do it?
First item, this is a question so it should belong in the question and answer threads! Secondly look here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2466191
Sent on my Moto X
Sorry, and thanks! I'll probably give this a shot, make that camera work a little better...
You can always install the SafeStrap ROM here. That's what I did.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2484908
[Rom] [VZW] SafeStrap 139.12.57
Sent from my Moto X
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
dymmeh said:
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method makes it so SafeStrap is no longer available though, right? If that's not the case then... Don't know what I've been waiting for!
Sent from my Moto X
mercado79 said:
This method makes it so SafeStrap is no longer available though, right? If that's not the case then... Don't know what I've been waiting for!
Sent from my Moto X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I searched around and can't really find an answer to that. I don't use SafeStrap so I have no idea. I'd assume you can try the method I posted and try using SafeStrap after. If that doesn't work then just RSD back to pre-update and hang on to SafeStrap until it's figured out. No guarantees if it'd work / break stuff, though. You'd be the guinea pig for that one.
dymmeh said:
I searched around and can't really find an answer to that. I don't use SafeStrap so I have no idea. I'd assume you can try the method I posted and try using SafeStrap after. If that doesn't work then just RSD back to pre-update and hang on to SafeStrap until it's figured out. No guarantees if it'd work / break stuff, though. You'd be the guinea pig for that one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@jcase Any chance you can answer this for us? Just cause someone was able to keep root (the one shot kind you mentioned), does that mean that using RSD is still on the table?
Sent from my Moto X
mercado79 said:
@jcase Any chance you can answer this for us? Just cause someone was able to keep root (the one shot kind you mentioned), does that mean that using RSD is still on the table?
Sent from my Moto X
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you take the OTA you dont have wY to revert to old stock Motorola block the reverts already and @jcase already said that he will be back for root in this device till 4.3 is out
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
juancaperez2000 said:
If you take the OTA you dont have wY to revert to old stock Motorola block the reverts already and @jcase already said that he will be back for root in this device till 4.3 is out
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I thought too. Thanks.
MikeyNick said:
All,
Has anyone on Verizon done the OTA update and kept root? From what I've been reading, sounds like if you rooted with MotoRoot then you're okay, but not if you used PwnMyMoto.
As far as people getting a bootloop, that does make some sense because the recovery partition is really just the boot image... So I can flash the stock recovery to the recovery partition before running the update, and that should theoretically prevent a bootloop. However, if this is going to erase my root, then I don't want to do the update.
So, has anyone on verizon done the OTA and kept their root? How did you do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For sure have I just updated my Moto X the other day on VZW and kept root. Here is a link to the process on how to do it
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2466191
will2live said:
For sure have I just updated my Moto X the other day on VZW and kept root. Here is a link to the process on how to do it
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2466191
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that's not up for debate. The issue is that even though you kept root, you're now blocked from using safestrap or ever gaining root again in the future (once another ota comes through). The update has now patched root going forward and it sounds like you won't be able to keep it after this update.
MikeyNick said:
All,
Has anyone on Verizon done the OTA update and kept root? From what I've been reading, sounds like if you rooted with MotoRoot then you're okay, but not if you used PwnMyMoto.
As far as people getting a bootloop, that does make some sense because the recovery partition is really just the boot image... So I can flash the stock recovery to the recovery partition before running the update, and that should theoretically prevent a bootloop. However, if this is going to erase my root, then I don't want to do the update.
So, has anyone on verizon done the OTA and kept their root? How did you do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mercado79 said:
I think that's not up for debate. The issue is that even though you kept root, you're now blocked from using safestrap or ever gaining root again in the future (once another ota comes through). The update has now patched root going forward and it sounds like you won't be able to keep it after this update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Safestrap i know about and dont care about as i dont use it. As for moving forward with root I'll be surprised if that is the case but I wont disagree either. It is very possible they patch something to actually block root down the road. From my understanding tho currently the patch is blocking ppl to root the update not keeping root if the process is followed correctly. My guess is odds are it will be the same on the next OTA just like we had to do on the original Razr line to keep root until the bootloader was unlocked. However if the next OTA is 4.3 tha tcould all change for sure as anything is possible. Even so when that time comes I'll just unlock mine. I do have a Dev edition i just haven't unlocked with it being brand new and not wanting to void warranty yet to make sure hardware is cool but i do want root so i went the long route for now is all.
dymmeh said:
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I installed PwnMyMoto, SuperSU and OTA Root Keeper, then decided not to root. I installed the Verizon update and boom, I'm rooted. Is that what you're saying is needed? I was surprised that root apps all work fine for me, I really didn't do anything but install those apks before I installed the camera update!
boardrx182 said:
So I installed PwnMyMoto, SuperSU and OTA Root Keeper, then decided not to root. I installed the Verizon update and boom, I'm rooted. Is that what you're saying is needed? I was surprised that root apps all work fine for me, I really didn't do anything but install those apks before I installed the camera update!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as you had PwnMyMoto and never ran it / not rooted you were good to go. SuperSU could be installed before or after. I dont think OTA Root Keeper was needed at all. PwnMyMoto runs after a reboot so once you installed the OTA and rebooted it did its rooting magic automatically for you. Glad it all worked out for you
dymmeh said:
The way that everyone (including myself) have been updating and keeping root on Verizon is as followed:
1. RSD back to stock (instructions here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515)
2. Install PwnMyMoto and DO NOT RUN IT
3. Download and install OTA
4. When the install completes, your phone will reboot a few times. This is just PwnMyMoto doing its magic.
5. Profit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dymmeh said:
As long as you had PwnMyMoto and never ran it / not rooted you were good to go. SuperSU could be installed before or after. I dont think OTA Root Keeper was needed at all. PwnMyMoto runs after a reboot so once you installed the OTA and rebooted it did its rooting magic automatically for you. Glad it all worked out for you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's awesome, didn't realize that would happen automatically. I completely expected that I'd have to complete the entire root process steps that were outlined in an earlier post if I wanted root. Thanks for the reply.
will2live said:
Safestrap i know about and dont care about as i dont use it. As for moving forward with root I'll be surprised if that is the case but I wont disagree either. It is very possible they patch something to actually block root down the road. From my understanding tho currently the patch is blocking ppl to root the update not keeping root if the process is followed correctly. My guess is odds are it will be the same on the next OTA just like we had to do on the original Razr line to keep root until the bootloader was unlocked. However if the next OTA is 4.3 tha tcould all change for sure as anything is possible. Even so when that time comes I'll just unlock mine. I do have a Dev edition i just haven't unlocked with it being brand new and not wanting to void warranty yet to make sure hardware is cool but i do want root so i went the long route for now is all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
people who have moto employee friends say they are moving to 4.3 next. Also, there may be a work around for you to keep root with the next release, but because people who aren't on dev phones that must be sure they can retain root would not have used this method (as it is a one chance type of method). so it is more likely that any new workarounds that people come up with will be for those that still have the ability to downgrade to original stock firmware. Also, SS is nice because it gives you the ability to run the phone just like you normally would but you can create complete backups of the device so you don't have to set everything up all over again if you screw something up with your phone. Even if you don't use SS for flashing roms it is still useful for back ups.
jayboyyyy said:
people who have moto employee friends say they are moving to 4.3 next. Also, there may be a work around for you to keep root with the next release, but because people who aren't on dev phones that must be sure they can retain root would not have used this method (as it is a one chance type of method). so it is more likely that any new workarounds that people come up with will be for those that still have the ability to downgrade to original stock firmware. Also, SS is nice because it gives you the ability to run the phone just like you normally would but you can create complete backups of the device so you don't have to set everything up all over again if you screw something up with your phone. Even if you don't use SS for flashing roms it is still useful for back ups.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have my Moto contacts and yes they are moving to 4.3 next last i was told when I asked. As for downgrading stock software that isn't going to happen once updated as you can't go backwards. Moto devices have been that way going back to the original Droid Razr. Its few and far between where you could actually go backwards after an OTA. So unless you mean stock of the current build installed then ppl will have issues for sure. That said if ppl OTA and have root now but for whatever reason need to use the new fastboot file that was just posted they will in fact be SOL for gaining root. This is exactly why I refuse to buy consumer units from the carrier besides a few other reason I wont go into. My theory is simple we want to mess with device buy an unlockable one or be ready to suffer/wait for an exploit after an OTA hits.
As far as root moving forward what process you talking about tho? There is 2 ways to do it. The one posted right above your post in this thread, or the link I posted above. If the info in this thread was used yes there may be an issue because of the patch. However I will be very surprised to see ppl not be able to keep root if they updated using the process in the link I posted above. Besides having to fastboot the boot.img to recovery in that process its the same way original Droid Razr owners had to update to be able to keep root if there was no root process for the OTA being pushed. Moving forward my guess is there will be an issue once 4.3 hits tho. I'm not sure you will be able to use the old kernel from 4.2.2 to overwrite recovery and boot the 4.3 /system so you can restore root and pull the actual 4.3 boot.img so that can be used for the recovery highjack. Bottom line is only time will tell at this point as you never know what Moto/Google will do with the next update.
Agreed on SS for backups even if not flashing ROMs, but personally i just dont mess with my device enough to worry about a full back i guess. For apps/settings I just use MyBackup PRO. I've also have an app a buddy made that creates a full XML if i wanted to use it. In the old days I use to make alot of backups for ROM flashing when I used SS. Guess in my old age I've just got lazy and dont worry about it that much anymore. I really hose the device I'll just swap to one of my others til i get back to fixing the messed up one.
will2live said:
I have my Moto contacts and yes they are moving to 4.3 next last i was told when I asked. As for downgrading stock software that isn't going to happen once updated as you can't go backwards. Moto devices have been that way going back to the original Droid Razr. Its few and far between where you could actually go backwards after an OTA. So unless you mean stock of the current build installed then ppl will have issues for sure. That said if ppl OTA and have root now but for whatever reason need to use the new fastboot file that was just posted they will in fact be SOL for gaining root. This is exactly why I refuse to buy consumer units from the carrier besides a few other reason I wont go into. My theory is simple we want to mess with device buy an unlockable one or be ready to suffer/wait for an exploit after an OTA hits.
As far as root moving forward what process you talking about tho? There is 2 ways to do it. The one posted right above your post in this thread, or the link I posted above. If the info in this thread was used yes there may be an issue because of the patch. However I will be very surprised to see ppl not be able to keep root if they updated using the process in the link I posted above. Besides having to fastboot the boot.img to recovery in that process its the same way original Droid Razr owners had to update to be able to keep root if there was no root process for the OTA being pushed. Moving forward my guess is there will be an issue once 4.3 hits tho. I'm not sure you will be able to use the old kernel from 4.2.2 to overwrite recovery and boot the 4.3 /system so you can restore root and pull the actual 4.3 boot.img so that can be used for the recovery highjack. Bottom line is only time will tell at this point as you never know what Moto/Google will do with the next update.
Agreed on SS for backups even if not flashing ROMs, but personally i just dont mess with my device enough to worry about a full back i guess. For apps/settings I just use MyBackup PRO. I've also have an app a buddy made that creates a full XML if i wanted to use it. In the old days I use to make alot of backups for ROM flashing when I used SS. Guess in my old age I've just got lazy and dont worry about it that much anymore. I really hose the device I'll just swap to one of my others til i get back to fixing the messed up one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
3 ways to maintain root are the one in the thread, SS, and the one you posted. The one you posted actually allows you to flash the original stock firmware on the phone because the BL was never touched thus the security (keeping you from downgrading) was never installed. That was what I was referring to when I said those that must make sure they will retain root in the future would not have done the install pwnmymmoto without running then take ota then run pwnmymoto. As you said those people will be screwed if the next root requires you to flash back to original stock or use part of the pwnmymoto exploit that will only be accessible to those that got the OTA with SS or the link you posted. I don't toy with my phone as much as I used to especially this one, but bypasing exchange security is pretty essential for me. I don't want an encrypted device with mandatory pin. I never lose my phone and I would know within minutes of losing it if i ever did so I could shut it down remotely.
And I'm not sure about the new kernel situation either. This is why I wanted to make sure I could go back to original firmware as I see that being our best bet to retain root through 4.3, assuming jcase doesn't release another exploit for it to get some cash.
jayboyyyy said:
3 ways to maintain root are the one in the thread, SS, and the one you posted. The one you posted actually allows you to flash the original stock firmware on the phone because the BL was never touched thus the security (keeping you from downgrading) was never installed. That was what I was referring to when I said those that must make sure they will retain root in the future would not have done the install pwnmymmoto without running then take ota then run pwnmymoto. As you said those people will be screwed if the next root requires you to flash back to original stock or use part of the pwnmymoto exploit that will only be accessible to those that got the OTA with SS or the link you posted. I don't toy with my phone as much as I used to especially this one, but bypasing exchange security is pretty essential for me. I don't want an encrypted device with mandatory pin. I never lose my phone and I would know within minutes of losing it if i ever did so I could shut it down remotely.
And I'm not sure about the new kernel situation either. This is why I wanted to make sure I could go back to original firmware as I see that being our best bet to retain root through 4.3, assuming jcase doesn't release another exploit for it to get some cash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gotchya, makes total sense now what you are saying. I think there is just confusion at times when talking about root & OTA because of different ways to do it in a case like this device. Being a Moto guy for so long tho i'm use to all the BS they throw at us.....lol. That said that is why i posted the link I did. Imho it's a bad plan to update using the other method of installing pwnmymoto and not running it first before taking the OTA. Doing the process to protect root before updating is a much safer bet atm imo. Sure its a little more work but at the end of the day you dont have to be worried as much moving forward. Only concern I have still for doing it the longer way is if that process will work when they push out 4.3. It had alot of changes in it so lord only knows what will be up for keeping root. And really in my case its no concern but for all the folks with consumer version it is still a concern i think for the time being

[Q] New System Update

I am having difficulties updating to the newest system update on the stock rom. I am rooted and have unlocked my bootloader, so that may have something to do with it. I am also running on straight talk, but I doubt that would be an issue, as it says it's already downloaded it and it just needs to install it. When I click install now, it turns the phone off, does the little thingy, then reboots. Upon rebooting, everything loads up, and a popup appears saying that the update failed, and then every hour it pops up asking to update. Do you know why this is happening and how to fix it, or a way to permanently suppress this popup?
ace_case said:
I am having difficulties updating to the newest system update on the stock rom. I am rooted and have unlocked my bootloader, so that may have something to do with it. I am also running on straight talk, but I doubt that would be an issue, as it says it's already downloaded it and it just needs to install it. When I click install now, it turns the phone off, does the little thingy, then reboots. Upon rebooting, everything loads up, and a popup appears saying that the update failed, and then every hour it pops up asking to update. Do you know why this is happening and how to fix it, or a way to permanently suppress this popup?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to be completely stock to take the OTA. If you haven't flashed Mex or Bell, I have a zip, maybe flashable (can't test, broke phone) that contains a completely stock /system. Or you can just backup your apps and flash the stock AT&T fastboot.
Post with link to zip.
skeevydude said:
You need to be completely stock to take the OTA. If you haven't flashed Mex or Bell, I have a zip, maybe flashable (can't test, broke phone) that contains a completely stock /system. Or you can just backup your apps and flash the stock AT&T fastboot.
Post with link to zip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a way to just suppress the update? I am a little wary of flashing etc. after the close call my first time...
ace_case said:
Is there a way to just suppress the update? I am a little wary of flashing etc. after the close call my first time...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you clear the cache. But if you want to leave yourself open to be vulnerable to the Heartbleed bug, a pretty serious security issue, then by all means, leave your front door unlocked so hackers can tap into your device and take anything they want.
palmbeach05 said:
Yes, you clear the cache. But if you want to leave yourself open to be vulnerable to the Heartbleed bug, a pretty serious security issue, then by all means, leave your front door unlocked so hackers can tap into your device and take anything they want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd say it's more like posting on Craigslist that you're going on vacation and then leaving all the doors open with your debit/credit card on the coffee table. It's a pretty serious bug, and according to wikipedia, 1.5% of the most popular 800,000 websites are still vulnerable to the bug, not to mention running a sideloaded app or connecting to a malicious website.
got the same issue on one of my atrix hd's but not the other. On mine that I unlocked the bootloader and rooted myself took the ota update but the other which was bought in the same condition will not and just keeps giving an error. trying to figure this out now so will update.
lilred91 said:
got the same issue on one of my atrix hd's but not the other. On mine that I unlocked the bootloader and rooted myself took the ota update but the other which was bought in the same condition will not and just keeps giving an error. trying to figure this out now so will update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing back to completely stock may be the easiest way to get the update.
lilred91 said:
got the same issue on one of my atrix hd's but not the other. On mine that I unlocked the bootloader and rooted myself took the ota update but the other which was bought in the same condition will not and just keeps giving an error. trying to figure this out now so will update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you flash the OTA update manually using something like Philz recovery, you can see the progress on the screen and where it stops updating. For me, it kept hanging on updating the smartactions.apk, which was because I had previously (long time ago) merged updates of the app to my System partition (along with a few other apps that were updated). This will mess up any attempt to do an OTA update, because your "stock" ROM is no longer stock.
I ended up having to flash back to the real stock with Mythtools, then install the OTA zip manually.
If you can't find the zip in your cache, you can download it directly from this post (thanks @skeevydude): http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=52657363&postcount=13

[Q] Checking for OTA Update Error

Just got the Verizon Moto X and now I am attempting to update it to the latest version (Android 4.4.2). I am currently on Android 4.2.2, which came with the phone out of the box. Whenever I go to About Phone > System Updates, it says "Checking for an available update" for a second and then the error message "An unexpected error has occured. Please try again later." pops up. I tried talking to Verizon (they redirected me to Motorola) and Motorola, where I was sent through the standard troubleshooting steps by someone who clearly didn't know anything about the phone. I tried restarting the phone, wiping the phone's cache, and looking for updates through the Motorola Device Manager on my computer (which said that my phone was up to date, even though it clearly isn't). Is there anything else I can do before I try a factory reset? I would prefer to download the OTA, but I have experience with rooting and installing custom ROMs, so if I have to install the update manually, I will (if it gets to that step, I will probably end up installing the 4.4.4 update which got sent out to soak testers).
mikestrong19 said:
Just got the Verizon Moto X and now I am attempting to update it to the latest version (Android 4.4.2). I am currently on Android 4.2.2, which came with the phone out of the box. Whenever I go to About Phone > System Updates, it says "Checking for an available update" for a second and then the error message "An unexpected error has occured. Please try again later." pops up. I tried talking to Verizon (they redirected me to Motorola) and Motorola, where I was sent through the standard troubleshooting steps by someone who clearly didn't know anything about the phone. I tried restarting the phone, wiping the phone's cache, and looking for updates through the Motorola Device Manager on my computer (which said that my phone was up to date, even though it clearly isn't). Is there anything else I can do before I try a factory reset? I would prefer to download the OTA, but I have experience with rooting and installing custom ROMs, so if I have to install the update manually, I will (if it gets to that step, I will probably end up installing the 4.4.4 update which got sent out to soak testers).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do NOT upgrade until you've read another 24 hours on this board!!!!! I think you should take a second look at your status and see if you misread 4.4.2 as 4.2.2
If I may ask, why not update?
mikestrong19 said:
If I may ask, why not update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you dont mind having an unrootable phone than update.
4.2.2 and 4.4 is fully rootable and able to disable write protection, 4.4.2 and newer is not. once you upgrade past 4.4 you lose ability to gain write and root.
doitinthedirt said:
If you dont mind having an unrootable phone than update.
4.2.2 and 4.4 is fully rootable and able to disable write protection, 4.4.2 and newer is not. once you upgrade past 4.4 you lose ability to gain write and root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh OK, that makes sense. Thanks for the info. I have another phone that I use for rooting, ROMs, etc. The Moto X is currently my daily phone, and I need it to be stable, so I am not worried about rooting or anything like that. Just want the latest stock Android version on there.
I just talked to Motorola on the phone again, and they went through the same standard checklist (restart, wipe cache, factory reset -- none of which worked). At this point, they are going to exchange my current phone for a new one, which works out for me. The Moto X I bought was used, so I am getting a new phone for a used price in a convoluted way.
mikestrong19 said:
Oh OK, that makes sense. Thanks for the info. I have another phone that I use for rooting, ROMs, etc. The Moto X is currently my daily phone, and I need it to be stable, so I am not worried about rooting or anything like that. Just want the latest stock Android version on there.
I just talked to Motorola on the phone again, and they went through the same standard checklist (restart, wipe cache, factory reset -- none of which worked). At this point, they are going to exchange my current phone for a new one, which works out for me. The Moto X I bought was used, so I am getting a new phone for a used price in a convoluted way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, what a waste. You could have just flashed the entire STOCK SBF as per the Return to Stock thread, and avoided costing Moto money, and hence raising the prices for everybody... :/
This would have repaired any filesystem corruption/damage, which is the only conceivable thing that might have caused your issue.
Your new one will probably have 4.4.2....which means no write protection disabling.
D'oh!
---------- Post added at 07:17 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:17 PM ----------
You could have had FULL root on 4.2.2.

Root 5.1.1 or 6.0.1?

I have a TMobile Note 4 SM-N910T. It's currently on 5.1.1 stock and I just got the OTA Marshmallow update notification. I'd like to try Marshmallow out, but if I allow the OTA update, will I be able to root it later? Or is 6.0.1 unrootable (for now)? If I root it now (before updating to MM) will I still get the OTA update? And will it still be rooted after the update? So many questions!
ota then root
I OTA'ed, now the phone randomly reboots several times a day, and some apps don't work correctly. Great.
factory reset.
*sigh* I was afraid you were going to say that. Now the problem is backing it up. I have a Titanium Backup Pro license, but I only use it on my old rooted GS2. The Note 4 is not rooted so TB won't run on it. All the rooting tutorials say "back up your phone before you root" but you need root to run TB. Chicken or egg? I guess I could try Samsung Kies, don't know if it will back up everything. My photos are backed up to Google Photos, I guess everything else is replaceable, but I would really rather not have to reinstall all my apps one by one after a factory reset.
That brings up another question: when you to go Settings/Backup and Reset, I have "Backup my data" set to On and linked to my Google account, but nowhere can I find documentation of exactly WHAT gets backed up or to WHERE (it says to "Google servers" but what the heck does that mean? I can't find it on my Google Drive or anywhere else on my Google account dashboard.)
I do greatly appreciate your help, by the way.
You could try reinstalling through kies or smart switch. Make sure to clear caches before and after. And see if that works. If it doesnt help, you could flash recovery, root, try to backup as much as you can between reboots and then factory reset. Your apps should automatically download from play store. But without the titbackup files you'll lose settings and data in a lot of apps that Google doesn't backup.
I unlocked your mum's bootloader.
kydar said:
I have a TMobile Note 4 SM-N910T. It's currently on 5.1.1 stock and I just got the OTA Marshmallow update notification. I'd like to try Marshmallow out, but if I allow the OTA update, will I be able to root it later? Or is 6.0.1 unrootable (for now)? If I root it now (before updating to MM) will I still get the OTA update? And will it still be rooted after the update? So many questions!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you able to downgrade back to 5.1.1? My phone also download the MM ota but I haven't installed it. I rooted 5.1.1 first and am trying to locate where exactly the MM ota downloaded to.
Been hearing too much about problems with MM.
Shad0wsabr3 said:
Were you able to downgrade back to 5.1.1? My phone also download the MM ota but I haven't installed it. I rooted 5.1.1 first and am trying to locate where exactly the MM ota downloaded to.
Been hearing too much about problems with MM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There aren't that many problems with MM. Just superficial stuff like not having mobile data toggle. The problems you are hearing about a factory reset will fix. Like lag, jankyness, apps loading, phone freezing temporarily. You won't be able to do OTA. It will fail because of root. You need to titanium backup or whatever method you prefer of backing up data and flash through kies, odin or smart switch. Probably easier to go that route unless you only did minor things with root like just block ads, then you can probably get away with flashing stock recovery and then OTA. You still might have to factory reset like I had to even though I flashed whole rom through smart switch. If you have xposed or modified something like swapping recent apps and back key like me, then you'll need to flash marshmallow whole and start over after backing up.
Afaik, you can't downgrade to 5.1.1 unless somebody figured out a workaround or you only flashed everything except bootloader.
I unlocked your mum's bootloader.
@Shad0wsabr3, my phone gave me the choice to delay the upgrade for a while, but eventually just did it without my consent. I suppose you could download stock 5.1.1 from sammobile if you really wanted to downgrade. I just wish I could figure out how to back up my (unrooted) phone so I could then do a factory reset and see if it helps the problems I'm having.
kydar said:
@Shad0wsabr3, my phone gave me the choice to delay the upgrade for a while, but eventually just did it without my consent. I suppose you could download stock 5.1.1 from sammobile if you really wanted to downgrade. I just wish I could figure out how to back up my (unrooted) phone so I could then do a factory reset and see if it helps the problems I'm having.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Iv never backed up an unrooted device so I wouldn't know. Glad you nrought that up as Iv been meaning to look into that.
Would you happen to know where the downloaded ota file location is? My phone downloaded it and I keep postponing it.
Sorry, idk exactly where in the file system it is. All I can caution you again is, I kept postponing it and postponing it, and then one day the phone just popped up a message saying it was going to reboot and update, whether I liked it or not. Well, it didn't actually SAY whether I liked it or not but it did decide that I had postponed the update long enough and it was going to apply the update, giving me no option to postpone it any longer. That sort of pissed me off.
Please let me know if you come up with a backup solution. I've tried SimpleADB or whatever it is called these days, and another app that claimed to be able to back up an unrooted phone. Neither of them worked as advertised.
Where are the root instructions for completely stock 910T with MM update?
vernj123 said:
Where are the root instructions for completely stock 910T with MM update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/not...overy-n910t-t3-marshmallow-pe3-guide-t3406870
kydar said:
Sorry, idk exactly where in the file system it is. All I can caution you again is, I kept postponing it and postponing it, and then one day the phone just popped up a message saying it was going to reboot and update, whether I liked it or not. Well, it didn't actually SAY whether I liked it or not but it did decide that I had postponed the update long enough and it was going to apply the update, giving me no option to postpone it any longer. That sort of pissed me off.
Please let me know if you come up with a backup solution. I've tried SimpleADB or whatever it is called these days, and another app that claimed to be able to back up an unrooted phone. Neither of them worked as advertised.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm still researching what your dealing with. As for me I found the ota file. For those looking for it this is how and where I found it....
With RomToolbox I went to root browser. Then to data folder and a folder named fota. Within the fota folder is the ota update named update.zip. I erased that and then went into Titanium Backup and chose to freeze both software update files. So far no constant reminders that I have an update ready to be installed.
Hope this may help.

Can a rooted phone be updated?

Can a rooted phone be updated? If i root my razor, will i be able to update without re-rooting?
ChronosTrigger said:
Can a rooted phone be updated? If i root my razor, will i be able to update without re-rooting?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it fails to install. You need to reflash the stock boot image to take an OTA.
Confused still
CurtisMJ said:
No, it fails to install. You need to reflash the stock boot image to take an OTA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm Sorry i'm so nooby in this regard.
So do you mean i have to basically get the stock ROM back again.
Then I can re-root like i did with the earlier version?
ChronosTrigger said:
I'm Sorry i'm so nooby in this regard.
So do you mean i have to basically get the stock ROM back again.
Then I can re-root like i did with the earlier version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Razer's update engine doesn't seem to have the option to download full images like some other OEMs, so only fully stock ROM can be upgraded.
On that note, Razer seems to have set a week as the delay for releasing factory images, so if you want to keep root you might want to wait after an OTA, though we may be able to reproduce a slot earlier if someone captures the OTA package (but it's not as verifiable of course)
CurtisMJ said:
Yes. Razer's update engine doesn't seem to have the option to download full images like some other OEMs, so only fully stock ROM can be upgraded.
On that note, Razer seems to have set a week as the delay for releasing factory images, so if you want to keep root you might want to wait after an OTA, though we may be able to reproduce a slot earlier if someone captures the OTA package (but it's not as verifiable of course)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WARNING: This file is really intended for a developer to use in making a rooted slot. Flashing the file below could? remove root or cause other issues if you're rooted. Brick maybe? Although, mostly likely, it won't flash at all if you are rooted.
I used adb to capture the Razer Phone 2 MR2 OTA. It's located here.
I also downloaded it... but figure y'all would prefer a link straight to the Google source
SHA1 is the file name so you can verify it. E9F494FACBF8B7A6DF32F342C84459A7051ACE24
The SHA256 I calculated was: FF571E225BC81C8D450964E0C7BA28DF13E963798F9E5AF7E7C142DE7FBE51A5
translucentfocus said:
WARNING: Flashing the file below could? remove root or cause other issues if you're rooted. Brick maybe? I'm not rooted, just trying to help people get the files they need.
I used adb to capture the OTA. It's located here.
I also downloaded it... but figure y'all would prefer a link straight to the Google source
SHA1 is the file name so you can verify it. E9F494FACBF8B7A6DF32F342C84459A7051ACE24
The SHA256 I calculated was: FF571E225BC81C8D450964E0C7BA28DF13E963798F9E5AF7E7C142DE7FBE51A5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So With this. You can root, AND if they have any Update for the phone in the future, I can Update it without losing my root?
ChronosTrigger said:
So With this. You can root, AND if they have any Update for the phone in the future, I can Update it without losing my root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not quite... The update will likely fail to apply due to checksum failures. If it did go through it would probably brick the kernel so that's a good thing. Sorry, there's not really a way to automatically root after official OTAs as they update block by block between two known states, and neither is rooted. It's just sort of not possible, by design. You have to unroot, update and root again.
The OTA package translucentfocus has provided allows us to reproduce a single slot before the week's wait for the factory image so we can root sooner.
translucentfocus said:
WARNING: Flashing the file below could? remove root or cause other issues if you're rooted. Brick maybe? I'm not rooted, just trying to help people get the files they need.
I used adb to capture the OTA. It's located here.
I also downloaded it... but figure y'all would prefer a link straight to the Google source
SHA1 is the file name so you can verify it. E9F494FACBF8B7A6DF32F342C84459A7051ACE24
The SHA256 I calculated was: FF571E225BC81C8D450964E0C7BA28DF13E963798F9E5AF7E7C142DE7FBE51A5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
which OTA is this? Also how to update
xterminater07 said:
which OTA is this? Also how to update
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I didn't specify. It's the MR2 update for the Razer Phone 2. Original reply has been also updated with version information in bold.
How to update? Actually, I posted the OTA because it's really for someone to make a slot with root before Razer releases the Factory MR2 Images--as @CurtisMJ mentioned previously.
CurtisMJ said:
Yes. Razer's update engine doesn't seem to have the option to download full images like some other OEMs, so only fully stock ROM can be upgraded.
On that note, Razer seems to have set a week as the delay for releasing factory images, so if you want to keep root you might want to wait after an OTA, though we may be able to reproduce a slot earlier if someone captures the OTA package (but it's not as verifiable of course)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to bring back an old thread but just a few questions if you don't mind.
I just bought a used Razer 2 seems like the user rooted it (I was unaware) and it has been years since I rooted anything. I downloaded root checker and it said I was rooted. I assume I'm running the stock rom, though magisk manager was installed on the phone when I turned it on so I guess it's not stock. I guess this means I can not take any OTA or it could brick? I went into system update and it still checked to make sure I was up to date so maybe OTA isn't disabled? So much has changed with apps and rooting since I messed with it that I don't know enough and I don't want to brick or bootloop the device.
Thanks
Univsoldur said:
Sorry to bring back an old thread but just a few questions if you don't mind.
I just bought a used Razer 2 seems like the user rooted it (I was unaware) and it has been years since I rooted anything. I downloaded root checker and it said I was rooted. I assume I'm running the stock rom, though magisk manager was installed on the phone when I turned it on so I guess it's not stock. I guess this means I can not take any OTA or it could brick? I went into system update and it still checked to make sure I was up to date so maybe OTA isn't disabled? So much has changed with apps and rooting since I messed with it that I don't know enough and I don't want to brick or bootloop the device.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that sounds about right. When rooted the OTA function doesn't disable right away. Only after its downloaded an update and actually tries to apply it it'll refuse. The new Android update engine is pretty good at not bricking. My guess is probably stock. If it's rooted, then the bootloader is unlocked, and it's not too bad. For magisk root at least all you need to do is flash the stock boot image and the OTA will apply. With factory images around and an unlocked bootloader you'll have a hard time bricking it. Just don't untick "OEM Unlocking" in developer options. Ever. (Or at least until you've fully restored stock firmware. It's supposed to be disabled so you can't make that mistake but Magisk hide tricks the firmware into believing the bootloader is locked so it's enabled. Whaddayagonnado)
CurtisMJ said:
Yes. Razer's update engine doesn't seem to have the option to download full images like some other OEMs, so only fully stock ROM can be upgraded.
On that note, Razer seems to have set a week as the delay for releasing factory images, so if you want to keep root you might want to wait after an OTA, though we may be able to reproduce a slot earlier if someone captures the OTA package (but it's not as verifiable of course)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CurtisMJ said:
Yes, that sounds about right. When rooted the OTA function doesn't disable right away. Only after its downloaded an update and actually tries to apply it it'll refuse. The new Android update engine is pretty good at not bricking. My guess is probably stock. If it's rooted, then the bootloader is unlocked, and it's not too bad. For magisk root at least all you need to do is flash the stock boot image and the OTA will apply. With factory images around and an unlocked bootloader you'll have a hard time bricking it. Just don't untick "OEM Unlocking" in developer options. Ever. (Or at least until you've fully restored stock firmware. It's supposed to be disabled so you can't make that mistake but Magisk hide tricks the firmware into believing the bootloader is locked so it's enabled. Whaddayagonnado)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the detailed response I managed to get up with the previous owner on swappa last night. He told me he unlocked the phone but never actually got around to rooting it. He also said it is running stock and the reason magisk is still on the phone after a wipe is because magisk persists after a wipe.
Messages from him.
Sorry about that, I did unlock the bootloader but I never actually got around to rooting. I usually relock the bootloader before I sell it but I completely forgot. You can apply an ota because I never installed a custom recovery, something else I didn't get around to doing. You can easily relock the bootloader using adb. If you need help with this let me know and I can walk you through it. But the bootloader being unlocked has zero effect on ota's. You are all good to go as far as that goes.
Oh no you're absolutely fine with an ota. I just looked it up and you're absolutely right, magisk does survive a reboot now. Since I didn't load a custom recovery though an ota will install just fine. Although when an ota does install though it will most likely remove magisk because it will write over the boot.img with the factory one. Here is the link to the factory images. It includes instructions on how to install it. But honestly a new ota should be released any time now since the last one I think was November. Once that installs you will be completely back to stock.
Does this sound accurate to y'all. Thanks again
@Univsoldur His knowledge seems a little dated. Kind of how mine was a few months ago Anyways here goes:
If a root checker says it's rooted then it probably is. I'm not sure why he says it isn't.
Magisk does indeed persist through a data wipe. I wasn't aware magiskinit could unpack the manager APK though. Neat
He's right in that an unlocked bootloader won't affect OTAs, but having magisk installed will.
The RP2 uses the new A/B update scheme. In this case it doesn't matter whether a custom recovery was ever installed. Recovery mode is not used during the process of installation. Unfortunately the new update scheme is also heavily based on deltas, even on the kernel image, so OTAs will be broken as it won't be able to retrieve a full kernel image from the OTA servers. Some OEMs' ROMs can do that, but Razer's can't. You can flash the factory images if you truly want a clean start, but to fix OTAs and remove magisk, reflashing just the kernel image with one from the factory image should be sufficient. The magisk uninstaller won't work due to the data wipe so that's probably the only option.
CurtisMJ said:
@Univsoldur His knowledge seems a little dated. Kind of how mine was a few months ago Anyways here goes:
If a root checker says it's rooted then it probably is. I'm not sure why he says it isn't.
Magisk does indeed persist through a data wipe. I wasn't aware magiskinit could unpack the manager APK though. Neat
He's right in that an unlocked bootloader won't affect OTAs, but having magisk installed will.
The RP2 uses the new A/B update scheme. In this case it doesn't matter whether a custom recovery was ever installed. Recovery mode is not used during the process of installation. Unfortunately the new update scheme is also heavily based on deltas, even on the kernel image, so OTAs will be broken as it won't be able to retrieve a full kernel image from the OTA servers. Some OEMs' ROMs can do that, but Razer's can't. You can flash the factory images if you truly want a clean start, but to fix OTAs and remove magisk, reflashing just the kernel image with one from the factory image should be sufficient. The magisk uninstaller won't work due to the data wipe so that's probably the only option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you think to get it back to stock I could just go here.
https://developer.razer.com/razer-phone-dev-tools/factory-images/
Will that remove magisk and return it back to stock I would assume there is no threat of flashing the stock image. Besides that do I need to mess with the kernel?
I'm wondering if it would be possible to flash the unlocked Razer phone 2 firmware to the AT&T version. Would the bootloader need to be unlocked?
Univsoldur said:
So you think to get it back to stock I could just go here.
https://developer.razer.com/razer-phone-dev-tools/factory-images/
Will that remove magisk and return it back to stock I would assume there is no threat of flashing the stock image. Besides that do I need to mess with the kernel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that will return it to stock and remove Magisk. No, if you flash the factory image you don't need to do anything further with the kernel.
---------- Post added at 11:14 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:11 PM ----------
DrGonzo6o said:
I'm wondering if it would be possible to flash the unlocked Razer phone 2 firmware to the AT&T version. Would the bootloader need to be unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The bootloader needs to be unlocked, yes. I had the unlocked one from the start, so I can't comment on how well that will work though.
Has anyone with an AT&T version successfully flashed unlocked firmware?
Univsoldur said:
So you think to get it back to stock I could just go here.
https://developer.razer.com/razer-phone-dev-tools/factory-images/
Will that remove magisk and return it back to stock I would assume there is no threat of flashing the stock image. Besides that do I need to mess with the kernel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did post a full unroot guide...

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