What are the benefits to rooting Tab S2? - Galaxy Tab S2 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

ok, i just got a tab s2 from christmas party, and im wondering what are the benefits to rooting the tablet
im all about rooting and all, as my note 5 is rooted running MOAR. And you can check my profile, ive done a good bit of themeing over the past few years.
but as for the Tablet, what good would root serve? should i root or pack it back up and get the gift receipt to exchange it for something else?

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JoeyDuran said:
ok, i just got a tab s2 from christmas party, and im wondering what are the benefits to rooting the tablet
im all about rooting and all, as my note 5 is rooted running MOAR. And you can check my profile, ive done a good bit of themeing over the past few years.
but as for the Tablet, what good would root serve? should i root or pack it back up and get the gift receipt to exchange it for something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting this will give you the option to do anything a rooted device can do.

Root it. Then let me know when theme it so I have a desire to root. Wait, you didn't get the 9.7, did you? ?

Basically this, do you want the keys to your house or do want someone else to have them and let them decide which parts of the house you're allowed to access?

ashyx said:
Basically this, do you want the keys to your house or do want someone else to have them and let them decide which parts of the house you're allowed to access?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, it could be argued that rooting in the hands of inexperienced users is a bit like handing the keys to the house to someone else. Plus there are rooms out there that you don't want people wandering into aimlessly. Think cockpit of a jetliner.
For me the main benefits are AdAway, xPosed, Tasker with secure settings, and ability to delete bloat ware rather than freeze it.

GroovyGeek said:
Well, it could be argued that rooting in the hands of inexperienced users is a bit like handing the keys to the house to someone else. Plus there are rooms out there that you don't want people wandering into aimlessly. Think cockpit of a jetliner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That may have some credibility if you gave your keys to someone else, but I neither do that nor give any of my devices to anyone else to play with.
I'm the pilot, so I'm in the cockpit and in charge of the jet.

ashyx said:
That may have some credibility if you gave your keys to someone else, but I neither do that nor give any of my devices to anyone else to play with.
I'm the pilot, so I'm in the cockpit and in charge of the jet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For you absolutely, for the typical user it is more like buying the budget fare and then being asked to fly the plane. For someone who needs to be told "what is rooting" or asks what it can do for them I would not be so sure the benefits are clear. This is not intended to put down the OP, we all need to learn and some learn by asking the right questions from more experienced users.

GroovyGeek said:
For you absolutely, for the typical user it is more like buying the budget fare and then being asked to fly the plane. For someone who needs to be told "what is rooting" or asks what it can do for them I would not be so sure the benefits are clear. This is not intended to put down the OP, we all need to learn and some learn by asking the right questions from more experienced users.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It comes down to this as far as I'm concerned, you can either be the driver or the passenger. [emoji6]

GroovyGeek said:
Well, it could be argued that rooting in the hands of inexperienced users is a bit like handing the keys to the house to someone else. Plus there are rooms out there that you don't want people wandering into aimlessly. Think cockpit of a jetliner.
For me the main benefits are AdAway, xPosed, Tasker with secure settings, and ability to delete bloat ware rather than freeze it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the most helpful post to answer what the OP was originally asking. After rooting, you can install custom ROMs that could give things like extended battery life or the ability to overclock your processor. It may not need it now, but future applications may refuse to run, or run slowly when installed unless you update your operating system. Samsung will eventually stop providing updates, but often there is support for the device by the XDA community who want to continue to use the tablet long after Samsung "retires" it.
As for right now, I'm leaving my device mostly stock until there becomes a strong reason to root.

Lucas155 said:
As for right now, I'm leaving my device mostly stock until there becomes a strong reason to root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's how I feel too. There's really nothing I need to do now that requires root access.

For me it was worth it just for the Xposed module that allows all apps to be used in multiwindow ?

Ramer said:
Root it. Then let me know when theme it so I have a desire to root. Wait, you didn't get the 9.7, did you? ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry ramer, just seein this...havent been keeping up with xda lately. and i got the 8.0 one

I want to root my new S2 so badly I can hardly stand it because I have a hard time living without AFWall+, AdAway, and Titanium Backup. However, this is my first Samsung device since the Galaxy S2, which had "Triangle Away". Now I'm worried that the thing will break on me within the warranty period and Samsung will refuse to repair it because of the Knox flag.
I'm more curious what the reliability of these tablets has been before I do anything to mine that precludes me from returning it or getting warranty service.

ashyx said:
It comes down to this as far as I'm concerned, you can either be the driver or the passenger. [emoji6]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with this. Rooting gives you the option to kill off ads, really backup the device, install software you want (like an adblocker ), not what google/samsung wants you to install (anything but an adblocker).
For me, it started with rooting, as I wanted a real backup. Now I root stock and run titanium backup, adblock, when there is, xposed with minminguard (even better adblocker) and as soon as I get a build working or someone else beats me to it, I install Lineage (previously known as CyanogenMod) to get rid of all bloat and install the apps I want. (yeah, even opengasps gets that treatment, pico only)
My wife was using my CM Moto G 2014 for a while and when she wanted to replace it, she went for one on which Lineage was available... Having to learn a different way of using the phone was the reason to switch to 1 interface for all. (and the restore of her settings with TB was nice as well )
---------- Post added at 05:30 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:27 PM ----------
jshamlet said:
I want to root my new S2 so badly I can hardly stand it because I have a hard time living without AFWall+, AdAway, and Titanium Backup. However, this is my first Samsung device since the Galaxy S2, which had "Triangle Away". Now I'm worried that the thing will break on me within the warranty period and Samsung will refuse to repair it because of the Knox flag.
I'm more curious what the reliability of these tablets has been before I do anything to mine that precludes me from returning it or getting warranty service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine had a bad charger port, while I was developing CM for it. (T810) Flashed stock, KNOX flag triggered, they checked and repaired. However, I'm in Europe and manufacturers have to prove that messing with software caused the breakage before they can void warranty. (Which they usually don't try, as it's to much a legal hassle)

T_I said:
I agree with this. Rooting gives you the option to kill off ads, really backup the device, install software you want (like an adblocker ), not what google/samsung wants you to install (anything but an adblocker).
For me, it started with rooting, as I wanted a real backup. Now I root stock and run titanium backup, adblock, when there is, xposed with minminguard (even better adblocker) and as soon as I get a build working or someone else beats me to it, I install Lineage (previously known as CyanogenMod) to get rid of all bloat and install the apps I want. (yeah, even opengasps gets that treatment, pico only)
My wife was using my CM Moto G 2014 for a while and when she wanted to replace it, she went for one on which Lineage was available... Having to learn a different way of using the phone was the reason to switch to 1 interface for all. (and the restore of her settings with TB was nice as well )
---------- Post added at 05:30 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:27 PM ----------
Mine had a bad charger port, while I was developing CM for it. (T810) Flashed stock, KNOX flag triggered, they checked and repaired. However, I'm in Europe and manufacturers have to prove that messing with software caused the breakage before they can void warranty. (Which they usually don't try, as it's to much a legal hassle)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the US, where we seem to enjoy letting corporations have their way with us. Given the scare I had last night with the battery*, I think I'm going to stay stock until at least a few weeks or months have gone by to avoid infant mortality issues.
*The battery levels dropped significantly faster than I was expecting, and then refused to recharge past 98% until I power cycled the tablet.

Hi, thank you all for the replies here, I would have 3 related questions:
Is there any way to root the SM-T719 without triggering KNOX/installing recovery?
Will root had any bad influence on Miracast or similar screen casting techniques or on audio? (I had a Sony and if the DRM keys where not found the screen cast and some other proprietary enhancements like Bravia didn't function after unlocking the bootloader, don't understand if KNOX is similar).
If so, can this be reversed?
Thanks!

ccris said:
Hi, thank you all for the replies here, I would have 3 related questions:
Is there any way to root the SM-T719 without triggering KNOX/installing recovery?
Will root had any bad influence on Miracast or similar screen casting techniques or on audio? (I had a Sony and if the DRM keys where not found the screen cast and some other proprietary enhancements like Bravia didn't function after unlocking the bootloader, don't understand if KNOX is similar).
If so, can this be reversed?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Short of an engineering kernel, which hasn't been found to my knowledge, no. Rooting will trip Knox on this device. This is irreversible, so make absolutely sure it won't be an issue before tripping it.
However, the only thing you really lose is Knox related features, such as secure storage (and possibly your warranty depending on location). I've not really found any functionality missing or damaged beyond that. The Tab S2 doesn't support Samsung Pay as it stands, which is the only other thing that typically gets axed with the warranty bit is set.
Unlike Sony, which for some reason thinks their software is so special they need DRM on the device, Samsung only borks things which are legitimately tied to a known secure device, and the list is pretty short on this tablet.

I'm not really sure if it's related but didn't notice this before rooting... When using an app (Tapatalk/Play Store/Opera browser) sometimes there's a glitch, like for 1-2 seconds the display refreshes the content, this might be repeted every 15-30 seconds... anyone else noticed something similar? thanks!

ccris said:
I'm not really sure if it's related but didn't notice this before rooting... When using an app (Tapatalk/Play Store/Opera browser) sometimes there's a glitch, like for 1-2 seconds the display refreshes the content, this might be repeted every 15-30 seconds... anyone else noticed something similar? thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what are the root apps you are using?
Sent from my LG-H918 using XDA Labs

Related

[Q] will the T-Mobile version be rootable

I've been away from android for about 2 years but the note 7 had me wanting to make a move back currently rocking the iPhone 6s+ jailbroken. And everything that I have seen about the iPhone 7 has not impressed me at all and with it looking to NOT have a headphone jack .. thats a no go for me .
Im asking if anyone has a clue if the phone will be rootable in order to be able to remove the bloat and KNOT ( I think that what its called ) security
CheesyNutz said:
I've been away from android for about 2 years but the note 7 had me wanting to make a move back currently rocking the iPhone 6s+ jailbroken. And everything that I have seen about the iPhone 7 has not impressed me at all and with it looking to NOT have a headphone jack .. thats a no go for me .
Im asking if anyone has a clue if the phone will be rootable in order to be able to remove the bloat and KNOT ( I think that what its called ) security
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I found this http://www.rootupdate.com/2016/08/root-samsung-galaxy-note-7-without-pc.html?m=1 and it says Chainfire has a root file for it. It doesn't specify the carrier or anything but there's hope I guess
susy1990 said:
Well I found this http://www.rootupdate.com/2016/08/root-samsung-galaxy-note-7-without-pc.html?m=1 and it says Chainfire has a root file for it. It doesn't specify the carrier or anything but there's hope I guess
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yep i hope its that easy lol
i'm going to guess the bootloader is locked like the s7 edge. hopefully it's not too long before we have a exploit to root.
CheesyNutz said:
I've been away from android for about 2 years but the note 7 had me wanting to make a move back currently rocking the iPhone 6s+ jailbroken. And everything that I have seen about the iPhone 7 has not impressed me at all and with it looking to NOT have a headphone jack .. thats a no go for me .
Im asking if anyone has a clue if the phone will be rootable in order to be able to remove the bloat and KNOT ( I think that what its called ) security
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's called KNOX, also you don't need root to remove bloat on android 5+. Some will argue for space purposes but the system parition is just that, chances are if you simply cannot uninstall and you have to disable, then the application resides in the system parition. Deleting app in the system partion creates no more useable user space.
As far as Knox, what makes you want to remove it?
I'm waiting to see before buying
With the evolution technology and the reliance on mobile devices, Having KNOX is not as bad as it seems, the piece of mind knowing I have access to defense grade mobile security is great for a business and general security aspect. which goes far past fingerprints and basic passwords. Just my opinion....
clockedtouch said:
With the evolution technology and the reliance on mobile devices, Having KNOX is not as bad as it seems, the piece of mind knowing I have access to defense grade mobile security is great for a business and general security aspect. which goes far past fingerprints and basic passwords. Just my opinion....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The golden question is, is there a back door to the iron gates of KNOX? On the front end it can be encrypted to the moon and back, but if there is a back door, it's pointless. Also with finger print scanners and the iris scanner. What a convenient way to capture personal data. Let the people do the work for them...brilliant.
I'm curious to hear what Dev's that know the in's and out's of the software have to say about this...The only way we'd be able to know for sure is if it was fully open source to be able to see any hidden doors and where they exist.
Just saying...
Oh and I do hope someone finds an exploit to be able to stably root.
I keep coming back to these threads day after day, fingers crossed. I can't stomack paying $900 for a device that I don't have full control over. Might as well by an iPhone with the better OS with the way Samsung is moving.
Just does not make any sense to increase the price for less functionality
Amd4life said:
I keep coming back to these threads day after day, fingers crossed. I can't stomack paying $900 for a device that I don't have full control over. Might as well by an iPhone with the better OS with the way Samsung is moving.
Just does not make any sense to increase the price for less functionality
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what do you consider "less functionality" just curious ......
clockedtouch said:
So what do you consider "less functionality" just curious ......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
xposed installer that's one
Kind of crazy to decide to buy or not buy a phone because of an ap that doesn't even come installed on the phone. IN any event, if ROOT is found for the Note 7 - then you can install Xposed)
Chances are very high that the US Varients of the Note 7 are all going to be locked. I will be shocked if TMOBILE does not lock down the Note 7 like they did on the S7 (well if you listen to TMOBILE they say Samsung locked it - not tmobile) whatever, my bet is it is going to be locked.
In any event, the Note 7 is going to be a beast of a phone - just like the S7 Edge -BUT, not much different than the 7 Edge - a little larger - slightly better camera - S Pen of course - but otherwise, not a whole lot different - that is probably the main reason why I am struggling with whether to buy or not - I played with one at Best Buy the other day and I like the feel of Note 7 a lot - the curved screen is slightly different than the S7 Edge - but it still looks amazing - not sure what I am going to do.....we'll see....I love new toys - for that reason alone, I will probably end up getting it - but still havent made a final decision....I will NOT buy a pre-order like I have done with every other phone since the note 2 - I got burned when the S7 Edge turned out to be locked and I am not going to risk that again ...we'll find out soon enough...
Yea it sure is a toss up at this point and Samsung if you are listening, you are not doing yourself a favor for locking boot loaders. You don't have to worry about anything, because you'll still make the sales off of the majority who don't care about unlocked BL's, but one thing that you do have to understated is that although the phone enthusiasts may make up a small percentage, we are the ones who are responsible for making up the foundation of the phone customizing culture. You are on the edge and about to lower yourself into the apple territory. Don't do that.
S7 and S7 edge both not rootable?
vibrantliker said:
S7 and S7 edge both not rootable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are rooted at the moment...
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers mobile app
Would a root for the Note 7 cause the iris / finger scanner & Pay apps to stop working or is that just for samsung pay? I ordered my Note 7 yesterday knowing that I probably won't see root for a while, but I don't know if it's worth it if root breaks some of the other functions. At least for me...
mister_propa said:
xposed installer that's one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Xposed is hardly a reason to make the low fruit argument of it might as well be an apple if you can't root it. The fact that I can upload whatever files I want, I can OTG connect keyboards, mice, thumbdrives, expandable memory was brought back, replacement launchers, I can install apps outside of the market, disabled built in software, change what app handles your messages.
Inherently there is so much more flexibility in android. You could drop android back two version numbers and functionality still holds its own against iOS today
All that happens before root.
---------- Post added at 12:15 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:12 PM ----------
coretech said:
Would a root for the Note 7 cause the iris / finger scanner & Pay apps to stop working or is that just for samsung pay? I ordered my Note 7 yesterday knowing that I probably won't see root for a while, but I don't know if it's worth it if root breaks some of the other functions. At least for me...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If its like the Note 5 when it comes to root (if you can) then it will only kill Samsung Pay. Of course there were other devices (S5/6?) that lost finger print scanning because of the root method. We kind of just have to wait and see.
bajasur said:
They are rooted at the moment...
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't see any roms for them on XDA (T-Mob)
clockedtouch said:
So what do you consider "less functionality" just curious ......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know you weren't talking to me but in my own personal opinion "less functionality" (A.k.a. without root)
means
I cannot control the CPU frequency or GPU, or the governor.
I cannot change the boot animation
I cannot use xposed
I cannot do whatever I want
I cannot tweak what I want for better performance or battery life
I cannot have custom ROMs
I cannot be able to show off my device like "I got root!"
I cannot disable some of the bloat ware that the system does not let me disable by default
I cannot calm my "they are spying on me" by uninstalling sketchy as hell apps or useless that just drain my battery
I cannot not just be bored and test out a **** load of ROMs or Root applications
I cannot have my snapchat mods/hacks
I cannot (Before I actually got YouTube Red) use xposed to make YouTube play in the background
I cannot decompile system applications and re-write some of it or re-theme it and then put it on my phone
I cannot be nerdy and make my my device seem like a samsung s5 or whatever other device I want by changing things such as the model ID and such
I cannot change my IMEI when I don't want to call MetroPCS but I need to test a different SIM card
I cannot have Automatic call recording (Or call recording at all, on stock without root)
----------
And so much more but then I realized this post is going to get too long and time consuming
TL;DR:
Root is a requirement in my eyes.
vibrantliker said:
I don't see any roms for them on XDA (T-Mob)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Andrew S.S. said:
I know you weren't talking to me but in my own personal opinion "less functionality" (A.k.a. without root)
means
I cannot control the CPU frequency or GPU, or the governor.
I cannot change the boot animation
I cannot use xposed
I cannot do whatever I want
I cannot tweak what I want for better performance or battery life
I cannot have custom ROMs
I cannot be able to show off my device like "I got root!"
I cannot disable some of the bloat ware that the system does not let me disable by default
I cannot calm my "they are spying on me" by uninstalling sketchy as hell apps or useless that just drain my battery
I cannot not just be bored and test out a **** load of ROMs or Root applications
I cannot have my snapchat mods/hacks
I cannot (Before I actually got YouTube Red) use xposed to make YouTube play in the background
I cannot decompile system applications and re-write some of it or re-theme it and then put it on my phone
I cannot be nerdy and make my my device seem like a samsung s5 or whatever other device I want by changing things such as the model ID and such
I cannot change my IMEI when I don't want to call MetroPCS but I need to test a different SIM card
I cannot have Automatic call recording (Or call recording at all, on stock without root)
----------
And so much more but then I realized this post is going to get too long and time consuming
TL;DR: I need root! I cannot live without it and unless you taste and eat the delicious glory(root) as much as I do, you wouldn't understand.
Root is a requirement in my eyes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Listing all the things you can do with root is great but my gripe is the claim of "It might as well be an iPhone" when you can't root it. Thats a very low energy argument.

Is the S5 still a good phone to get in 2016?

About to get warranty replacement phone thru my carrier tomorrow.
Was offered S5 and an alternate to my G3 since they were out of stock.
If you were in my shoes, which phone would you get?!
Thanks in advance
S5
The S5 is still a very capable phone. The display is top notch. It would really depend on what carrier you are with though. I know the att variant cant be rooted or unlocked currently and verizon has theirs locked down too, but as long as it comes with lollipop (5.x.x) software the verizon variant can be unlocked all the way to the bootloader.
as far as i know they are the only two providers who secure the s5 like fort knox. I could be wrong though. I have a verizon variant (900V) and its fully unlocked and rooted. I dont think you'll find a better phone in the same price range.
S5 is still a great phone. Only issues ive had with it over the 28 mos that ive had it is the low light blurryness with the camera and the fact that you have to swipe your thump across the fingerprint scanner. Having to do that nowadays kinda makes it feel dated. Other than those 2 issues, its a great phone!!
I just got an S5 to replace my S4 and I love it. I'm on AT&T and got the Tmobile version for the unlocked bootloader. I would totally get this phone again.
Its a great phone!
Green Bastard said:
The S5 is still a very capable phone. I have a verizon variant (900V) and its fully unlocked and rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a s5 900v like you (verizon) & got it 12 days ago. . When did you root yours? I *had* lollipop until last Thursday after accidentally pressing the screen through my pocket....which proceded to accept the update I was avoiding. Now I have marshmellow and I'm not happy ???*
Been fishing through XDA and haven't found anything about rooting s5 on mm. Anyone have something to share with me? Thanks
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...t/rd-unlocking-galaxys-s5-bootloader-t3337909
That's for bootloader unlocking, some Google searching should get you root too
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Free mobile app
youdoofus said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...t/rd-unlocking-galaxys-s5-bootloader-t3337909
That's for bootloader unlocking, some Google searching should get you root too
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the root method (link within the thread u posted) about a week ago & had problems. To make a long story short, check out my remarks on pages 1-2 in this thread.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-galaxy-s5/help/to-root-t3330514/page2
I'm just looking to root my g900v s5. I don't want to mess around with the bootloader (not yet anyway). I just want root before Marshmellow or verizon release another update to patch the *open* vulnerability.
If the dumb MM update didn't happen I would've had time to find lollipop root. I never had a problem w/ my s4 where the screen would allow a touch through pants or shirt pocket. Thought these things were sensitive to the touch of skin not clothing?? Cause of my problem was losing my s4 over July 4th weekend that I rooted w/ towelroot in 05/2014 (that I just paid off in May over 24 months w/ verizon)
Right on. Well, if the bootloader unlock is there, root has to be possible too. I'll see what I can find later. We are busy as hell on Mondays at work
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 10:17 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:10 AM ----------
have you tried kingroot? not kingoroot
youdoofus said:
Right on. Well, if the bootloader unlock is there, root has to be possible too. I'll see what I can find later. We are busy as hell on Mondays at work
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 10:17 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:10 AM ----------
have you tried kingroot? not kingoroot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root looked do-able by what @painiac put together, which is similar to @jkrause's is in the link you shared.
Kingroot: no go
OneClick: no go
Towelroot: no go
The root (sorry, couldn't resist) of my problem is that I can't get a PC to recognize my s5 as removable storage. Since they don't this has prevented me from going any further. Take your time and pass on whatever you can...whenever that time is.
---------- Post added at 06:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:11 PM ----------
youdoofus said:
Right on. Well, if the bootloader unlock is there, root has to be possible too. I'll see what I can find later. We are busy as hell on Mondays at work
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 10:17 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:10 AM ----------
have you tried kingroot? not kingoroot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root looked do-able by what @painiac put together, which is similar to @jkrause's is in the link you shared.
Kingroot: no go
OneClick: no go
Towelroot: no go
The root (sorry, couldn't resist) of my problem is that I can't get a PC to recognize my s5 as removable storage. Since they don't this has prevented me from going any further. Take your time and pass on whatever you can...whenever that time is. Thanks
Lane W. said:
[/COLOR]
Root looked do-able by what @painiac put together, which is similar to @jkrause's is in the link you shared.
Kingroot: no go
OneClick: no go
Towelroot: no go
The root (sorry, couldn't resist) of my problem is that I can't get a PC to recognize my s5 as removable storage. Since they don't this has prevented me from going any further. Take your time and pass on whatever you can...whenever that time is. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CLEVER!!! LoL! No, that was actually pretty funny! But oneclick and towel doesnt surprise me, but kingroot has been the "if nothing else works" as of late. I have a root program on my computer that i cant recall the name of off hand, and it does look like a malware program, but its been the go-to when all else fails. Ill look at my desktop icons and remind myself what it is when i get home. Its some chinese .exe is that helps in the interim
found it, its called "v root"
it looks like its malware, but the one i got works fine
here is a bit of an older article that lists it first as a good program to root stuff
http://www.3ptechies.com/9-best-software-apps-to-root-android-devices.html
tiguy99 said:
About to get warranty replacement phone thru my carrier tomorrow.
Was offered S5 and an alternate to my G3 since they were out of stock.
If you were in my shoes, which phone would you get?!
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd stay clear of Samsung from my experiences:
- issues with warranty and knox
- not easy to customise / flash / fix OEM issues with bloatware, root, other ROM issues that require root
- many variants mean even after 8 years of flashing ROMs, I still can't find what I need in the SGS5 section. I don't know what ROMs can be flashed to my device, the information is sparse and not easy to follow or understand
I'm looking to go back to HTC - they don't mind you rooting / customising (unless this has changed in the last couple years).
dieselboy said:
I'd stay clear of Samsung from my experiences:
- issues with warranty and knox
- not easy to customise / flash / fix OEM issues with bloatware, root, other ROM issues that require root
- many variants mean even after 8 years of flashing ROMs, I still can't find what I need in the SGS5 section. I don't know what ROMs can be flashed to my device, the information is sparse and not easy to follow or understand
I'm looking to go back to HTC - they don't mind you rooting / customising (unless this has changed in the last couple years).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I disagree with this (respectfully). I've never had to return a Samsung because of warranty related issues or return one period, so warranty and Knox are all but irrelevant. Customization is a snap, flashing is a breeze, and bloatware (which is caused by the carrier most often) is easily solved with titanium backup. There are many variants, yes, but all the Roms are cross compatible as long as you flash the snapdragon based processor ones on a snapdragon powered device. The only sgs5s that were problematic were the at&t and (of course) vzw ones because of the carriers deciding to lock the @&$%/!? Bootloaders. Sprint and tmob sgs5s have always been an absolute cakewalk. Hell, I've bricked mine intentionally just to see if I could actually kill it. It's actually harder than one would think to seriously screw up a sgs5 esp a g900p
youdoofus said:
I disagree with this (respectfully). I've never had to return a Samsung because of warranty related issues or return one period, so warranty and Knox are all but irrelevant. Customization is a snap, flashing is a breeze, and bloatware (which is caused by the carrier most often) is easily solved with titanium backup. There are many variants, yes, but all the Roms are cross compatible as long as you flash the snapdragon based processor ones on a snapdragon powered device. The only sgs5s that were problematic were the at&t and (of course) vzw ones because of the carriers deciding to lock the @&$%/!? Bootloaders. Sprint and tmob sgs5s have always been an absolute cakewalk. Hell, I've bricked mine intentionally just to see if I could actually kill it. It's actually harder than one would think to seriously screw up a sgs5 esp a g900p
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi mate, of course this is a difference of opinion and I'm not posting here to argue with you so much as to give reasons for my post above.
When I say warranty issues, I mean in a sense that if you flash anything to your samsung then you've voided your warranty. If you customise on day 1, knox efuse are blown and it's impossible to revert what you have done. In this case your warranty is voided and samsung can refuse to honour any warranty issues irrelevant to your flashing. Basically you make changes to software on your device and later there is a hardware issue such as microphone not working - samsung don't have to honour that claim.
Flashing is a complete pain in the bum, to be honest. What makes it harder is these forums don't contain all of the information you need in once place. Compared to my previous devices such as HTC, you simply do a wipe and install the new rom. With the samsung you need to do the same PLUS find and flash the correct bootloader and modem. And this isn't even taking into consideration the knox trip issue. The roms aren't cross-compatible unless I've missed that bit of information? You technically can flash a g900F ROM to a g900i but to get it to boot you need to do additional steps. NFC and call recording wont work, though. So, no you can't really flash that way. Samsung may have made it easier for you guys in the USA, not sure.
I disagree about the bloatware statement, samsung have their own rubbish in there as well and most of it is redundant and not necessary. There's a samsung app store and a samsung account thing that lets you find your phone - google has all of that.
Lastly, when you trip knox this actually physically prevents some functionality on your phone, but I've never tried using that functionality anyway (although I did want to try it out). From memory this is a secure parition on the phone that you set up for your work, which is completely separate from the personal things on your phone which can be seen to make it more secure.
All the best,
dieselboy said:
Hi mate, of course this is a difference of opinion and I'm not posting here to argue with you so much as to give reasons for my post above.
When I say warranty issues, I mean in a sense that if you flash anything to your samsung then you've voided your warranty. If you customise on day 1, knox efuse are blown and it's impossible to revert what you have done. In this case your warranty is voided and samsung can refuse to honour any warranty issues irrelevant to your flashing. Basically you make changes to software on your device and later there is a hardware issue such as microphone not working - samsung don't have to honour that claim.
Flashing is a complete pain in the bum, to be honest. What makes it harder is these forums don't contain all of the information you need in once place. Compared to my previous devices such as HTC, you simply do a wipe and install the new rom. With the samsung you need to do the same PLUS find and flash the correct bootloader and modem. And this isn't even taking into consideration the knox trip issue. The roms aren't cross-compatible unless I've missed that bit of information? You technically can flash a g900F ROM to a g900i but to get it to boot you need to do additional steps. NFC and call recording wont work, though. So, no you can't really flash that way. Samsung may have made it easier for you guys in the USA, not sure.
I disagree about the bloatware statement, samsung have their own rubbish in there as well and most of it is redundant and not necessary. There's a samsung app store and a samsung account thing that lets you find your phone - google has all of that.
Lastly, when you trip knox this actually physically prevents some functionality on your phone, but I've never tried using that functionality anyway (although I did want to try it out). From memory this is a secure parition on the phone that you set up for your work, which is completely separate from the personal things on your phone which can be seen to make it more secure.
All the best,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wasn't trying to argue either. It's rather hard to express tone over text I've just never had any trouble with flashing stuff on a Samsung since the epic touch 4g. Htcs have that goofy bootloader unlock that has to be done via htcdev.com. The newest Samsung I'd be willing to use is the S5 anyways because of the removable battery, external storage and waterproofing. The s6 sucks and the s7 has that dumb encrypted storage that made root hard for a while. Samsung's are far from perfect, and I'd likely be looking at a OnePlus or a Huawei in the future if I was shopping for a phone, but for those looking at either the second hand market, refurbs or a new one available for stupid cheap, S5s are great phones still.
Again, 0 arguing from me, like you said, just a differing opinion. Cheers mate! Btw, judging my the terms you used, I take it that you're in the UK, and thank goodness Jeremy Clarkson and the boys are back!!
youdoofus said:
CLEVER!!! LoL! No, that was actually pretty funny!
found it, its called "v root". it looks like its malware, but the one i got works fine
here is a bit of an older article that lists it first as a good program to root stuff
http://www.3ptechies.com/9-best-software-apps-to-root-android-devices.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should I use the links in this "older article" to possibly get to vroot? Or do you have something more current? Thanks
Lane W. said:
Should I use the links in this "older article" to possibly get to vroot? Or do you have something more current? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Vroot has a site. Lemme look
http://vrootdownload.info/download/
youdoofus said:
Vroot has a site. Lemme look
http://vrootdownload.info/download/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fantastic, thanks. Just to be sure, I want to use the one click root APK the part at the top under the first description, correct? The second section, as far as I can tell, is for iroot via a PC?
Is Titanium compatible with this method of root? What about recovery? Does Vroot have its own method or could I use TWRP or SafeStrap? Have you had any complications with the modem or WiFi using your device with Vroot?
Thank you!!
youdoofus said:
I wasn't trying to argue either. It's rather hard to express tone over text
...
Again, 0 arguing from me, like you said, just a differing opinion. Cheers mate! Btw, judging my the terms you used, I take it that you're in the UK, and thank goodness Jeremy Clarkson and the boys are back!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I said that I wasn't arguing for that very reason - I didn't want my second post to come across in a negative way. I could see that your post had come across in a good light and wanted to keep it that way
I am from UK but living in Australia at the moment. I last heard that Chris Evans has gone from the new Top Gear - thank F... for that, he's the biggest pleb going and watching the first couple of episodes were extremely painful and cringy. A number of things Chris said in the first show were somewhat not completely correct and I eventually switched it off.
Really looking forward to watching Clarkson and the gang - they're entertaining. Their top gear was more like a sit-com, which is what it's grown into and it works pretty well. Anyone in the family can watch it even if they know nothing about cars - I'll have to google for it because I don't know any details about their new show.

Info overload : Please help me turn an SV98LN OS 5.4.0.0 into a NEXUS flavoured unit

Hi all, appreciate best practice is always to read posted guides but I'm getting kinda old and too many threads are only relevant at particular points in time when the 5th Gen Fire was newer. So basically I'm lost in conflicting info on the guides and need some direction.
Starting point is i) I've got 'basic' experience of rooting and flashing roms, so my PC has got ADB drivers etc. ii) I have a stock OS 5.4.0.0 5th Gen Fire which is my elderly mothers and the intention is to get the crap OS removed and make it a simple Nexus 7'like device.
Can somebody please give me some step-by-step advice. I'm at the point where the device is developer enabled and ABD enabled. But the guides I've seen are all based on old OS's so I fear the whatever I try next will just brick the unit.
Thx in advance
As of now, 5.3.2.1 - 5.4.0.0 can not be rooted, much less have the bootloader unlocked to install a custom ROM.
aww bummer
OK second question : How should I treat the term "As of now"? Do you think there is any likelihood of a 5.4.0.0 root solution happening soon? i.e. weeks or months?
If its not gonna be a while, then I might just install the non-root google-play stuff and just shift the bloaty stuff out of sight if I can.
ebod said:
aww bummer
OK second question : How should I treat the term "As of now"? Do you think there is any likelihood of a 5.4.0.0 root solution happening soon? i.e. weeks or months?
If its not gonna be a while, then I might just install the non-root google-play stuff and just shift the bloaty stuff out of sight if I can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EDIT: The usual warning: I am not responsible for any damage done to your device. If using ANY of these guides, you're doing so at your own risk.
That's about your only option at the moment. You can use the guide here, which will install the appropriate google services needed. You can then use this guide to manually 'uninstall' system/Amazon applications (you aren't really uninstalling them, just disabling them). Or use the automatic tool here, which will uninstall a significant number of the Amazon 'bloatware' and install the Google services and a few other Google related apps.
I CANNOT STRESS THIS NOTE ENOUGH: Whether you uninstall apps manually or automatically, please be aware you have to replace the Amazon apps BEFORE you uninstall them. For example, if you want to use contacts, you should install the necessary Google Contact APKs, open 'Contacts' then uninstall Amazon contacts. DO NOT UNINSTALL the Amazon Contact Storage APK or no contact applications will function properly, if at all. There is a guide here where you can install Google Contacts and get a fun little surprise as a result of doing so.
A factory reset will bring back all system apps you uninstall whether you uninstall them manually or automatically. So if anything stops working or you uninstall something that broke something else, factory resetting will fix the tablet, but you'll have to start over.
If you want to use a custom launcher like Nova Launcher, you can read this post which will describe how to do so. In this post I explain how to disable Fire Launcher without breaking the home button. Please read the WHOLE post, including the very bottom where there's a link that describes a 'fix' for the recent apps button (square button) which has a fit when you uninstall Fire Launcher (even on rooted devices). Just tap on 'hide Fire Launcher BEFORE' at the bottom which will take you to a page where you can activate widgets. Read the very bottom and it will tell you how to 'fix' the recent apps button. When you swipe closed apps using the recent apps button, swiping the last one will kick you to the lock screen or black you out for a moment. The fix is kinda cheesy, but it is a fix. I use it on my HD 8.
In this post I describe what Amazon apps I did NOT uninstall. Note this list of apps will differ slightly from the ones installed on the HD 7, but not by very much. This list MIGHT allow you to use Gmail (which doesn't work on any tablet model) and a few other apps.
Very soon, I plan to make a thread with a detailed tutorial on how to do all of this, so it's in one single spot for everyone to find.
Jake1702_ said:
As of now, 5.3.2.1 - 5.4.0.0 can not be rooted, much less have the bootloader unlocked to install a custom ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For awareness/clarity: root and SuperSU (no other root manager) are the only prerequisites for installing a custom ROM on this device via FlashFire. The bootloader does not need to be unlocked.
Davey126 said:
For awareness/clarity: root and SuperSU (no other root manager) are the only prerequisites for installing a custom ROM on this device via FlashFire. The bootloader does not need to be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Davey, yeah I'm not ultimately looking for a rooted device, I just want a clean Nexus'like rom with no bloated crap on it. As a plan-B I will follow the other guide notes that DragonFire kindly provided. But primarily if you are still staying I can get Flashfire to install a custom Nexus rom, then please can you guide me to the appropriate instructions to make Flashfire come to life.
I have Flashfire installed...but it just warns there are no permissions etc.
Thanks
ebod said:
Thanks Davey, yeah I'm not ultimately looking for a rooted device, I just want a clean Nexus'like rom with no bloated crap on it. As a plan-B I will follow the other guide notes that DragonFire kindly provided. But primarily if you are still staying I can get Flashfire to install a custom Nexus rom, then please can you guide me to the appropriate instructions to make Flashfire come to life.
I have Flashfire installed...but it just warns there are no permissions etc.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A custom ROM (ie: Nexus) can not be installed on this device without root. I do not foresee that happening anytime soon with the so you're stuck with FireOS for a bit. It's not a bad skin once you get used to it.
@DragonFire1024 provided a nice summary of the available tweaks and associated caveats. I suggest going slow; start with the Google Play Store and some light visual customizations. Save the all-or-nothing 'debloat script' until have have a better idea of what to keep.
Most importantly, enjoy your new device and don't fret over what could have been.
This list MIGHT allow you to use Gmail (which doesn't work on any tablet model) and a few other apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummm... Gmail works fine on my Fire.
Davey126 said:
For awareness/clarity: root and SuperSU (no other root manager) are the only prerequisites for installing a custom ROM on this device via FlashFire. The bootloader does not need to be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not know that. If that's the case, as soon as root is obtainable I'm installing the Fire Nexus ROM.
Jake1702_ said:
Ummm... Gmail works fine on my Fire.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're lucky then. Many users have had issues with Gmail either force closing or not working at all. Hope the rest was somewhat helpful.
---------- Post added at 05:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:47 PM ----------
Jake1702_ said:
Ummm... Gmail works fine on my Fire.
I did not know that. If that's the case, as soon as root is obtainable I'm installing the Fire Nexus ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
*IF* it becomes available. I've had my tablets almost a year, maybe a months or so under one. That's how long I've been waiting. Some have been waiting longer.
Jake1702_ said:
Ummm... Gmail works fine on my Fire.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Initially and for many months after the Gmail app worked fine on 5th-7th gen devices with Google Play Services/Store installed. The app started crashing on launch following a silent update (lasted about 2 months) then started working again a few weeks ago.
Davey126 said:
Jake1702_ said:
Ummm... Gmail works fine on my Fire.
Initially (and for many months after) the Gmail app worked fine on 5th-7th gen devices with Google Play Services/Store installed. The app started crashing on launch following a silent update (lasted about 2 months) then started working again a few weeks ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read somewhere where quite a few people had put a bug report in or something to that effect. A few days later there was an update to Gmail. That's about the time I installed it and it worked perfectly for me. I'm willing to bet Google did something that that made it possible to use again. Did Amazon do something to block is from using it? In my opinion, not likely. But what caused it? Not a clue. There is some speculation it had to do to with a permission, but that's only speculation. This is something we'll likely never get the answer to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jake1702_ said:
... as soon as root is obtainable I'm installing the Fire Nexus ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't get your hopes up. There's a reason securing root on Amazon and other manufacturer devices has become more difficult over the past 12-18 months. While I appreciate the euphemistic optimism shown by some the tightened security and legacy code cleanup initiated by Google is actually a good thing for the general Android user community. Of course, XDAers hate it (spare me the sermon on someone controlling *your* device) but they don't represent the much larger community that Amazon and other market driven companies are targeting. Business/capatolism 101.
Davey126 said:
Initially and for many months after the Gmail app worked fine on 5th-7th gen devices with Google Play Services/Store installed. The app started crashing on launch following a silent update (lasted about 2 months) then started working again a few weeks ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Might just have been the perfect period of time during when I had mine sitting and not being used. Guess I'm just lucky.
Davey126 said:
Don't get your hopes up. There's a reason securing root on Amazon and other manufacturer devices has become more difficult over the past 12-18 months. While I appreciate the euphemistic optimism shown by some the tightened security and legacy code cleanup initiated by Google is actually a good thing for the general Android user community. Of course, XDAers hate it (spare me the sermon on someone controlling *your* device) but they don't represent the much larger community that Amazon and other market driven companies are targeting. Business/capatolism 101.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is definitely possible, just not enough people spending time on this device, they are all focused on more popular brands/devices.
Jake1702_ said:
Might just have been the perfect period of time during when I had mine sitting and not being used. Guess I'm just lucky.
It is definitely possible, just not enough people spending time on this device, they are all focused on more popular brands/devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This I will actually agree with. But to be honest, I really thought we'd have a good chance after Prime Day. I really thought we'd have gotten it then, but I still have hopes.
That being said, the tricks and hacks we've discovered over the last few months are pretty amazing. The method of 'uninstalling' I mentioned a few posts ago, was never intended nor expected to work on these tablets. It had sat on XDA for a couple days before I literally said out loud: "oh what the hell. I can't break anything." So gave it a shot and was incredibly surprised to see it really did disable Amazon Video.
With the tricks and hacks I also mentioned a few posts back, really does go a long way in terms of a custom ROM. Aside from the technical aspects and apps, in my opinion it's pretty much a custom systemless ROM. Though some may disagree with me very much.
Feel free to ask any question you like. We'll do our best to help.
DragonFire1024 said:
This I will actually agree with. But to be honest, I really thought we'd have a good chance after Prime Day. I really thought we'd have gotten it then, but I still have hopes.
That being said, the tricks and hacks we've discovered over the last few months are pretty amazing. The method of 'uninstalling' I mentioned a few posts ago, was never intended nor expected to work on these tablets. It had sat on XDA for a couple days before I literally said out loud: "oh what the hell. I can't break anything." So gave it a shot and was incredibly surprised to see it really did disable Amazon Video.
With the tricks and hacks I also mentioned a few posts back, really does go a long way in terms of a custom ROM. Aside from the technical aspects and apps, in my opinion it's pretty much a custom systemless ROM. Though some may disagree with me very much.
Feel free to ask any question you like. We'll do our best to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Funny how for months now this device still hasn't been rooted, yet a few days after the release of the Samsung Galaxy S8, it was already rooted. Simply, those devices have much more people willing to take time to find exploits for, whereas the Fire does not. It's a shame really.
Sent from my KFFOWI using Tapatalk
Jake1702_ said:
Funny how for months now this device still hasn't been rooted, yet a few days after the release of the Samsung Galaxy S8, it was already rooted. Simply, those devices have much more people willing to take time to find exploits for, whereas the Fire does not. It's a shame really.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There just may not be any at the moment. Amazon has done a lot to this OS, so much so, I've seen posts where users don't even consider it an Android base anymore. Depending on what you read, I've seen other sites where some say its too butchered.
Also keep in mind when an exploit is found, some have been around for a very long time. So one may exist, but no one has either found it yet so no method exists or as you say, may not care enough to take the time to make a method. Every Android device is different. The OS is customized and programed to a manufacturers liking who also add their own customization, then is passed off to a service provider who further customizes it. In that period exploits are patched or simply don't work because what's exploited in certain devices, may not exist in other devices. The list and possibilities really could go on.
DragonFire1024 said:
There just may not be any at the moment. Amazon has done a lot to this OS, so much so, I've seen posts where users don't even consider it an Android base anymore. Depending on what you read, I've seen other sites where some say its too butchered.
Also keep in mind when an exploit is found, some have been around for a very long time. So one may exist, but no one has either found it yet so no method exists or as you say, may not care enough to take the time to make a method. Every Android device is different. The OS is customized and programed to a manufacturers liking who also add their own customization, then is passed off to a service provider who further customizes it. In that period exploits are patched or simply don't work because what's exploited in certain devices, may not exist in other devices. The list and possibilities really could go on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wonder if it would be possible "break" the bootloader, so-to-speak, to a point where it "works" but is flawed, allowing the installation of a custom ROM.
Jake1702_ said:
I wonder if it would be possible "break" the bootloader, so-to-speak, to a point where it "works" but is flawed, allowing the installation of a custom ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not likely. I have a list of things to try on my head. Some simple, some outrageous. Truth is this HD 8 has been through hell. I've reset it more times than I can count. I've nearly disected it and to be honest I'm absolutely amazed I haven't broken it yet. So I'm giving her a break from that right now.
With that said, I have an HD 7 that's rooted. I have an idea to try some things using it, that could work on non rooted 7 and up tablets, that would be totally systemless that could open up the possibilities to some things. I've been disecting the HD 7 for some ideas and plan to do some testing very soon. I'm the type that will immediately look at all settings and functions and then look through every file, folder and directory I'm able to, so we can do what many of us have already achieved. Keep an eye on me
DragonFire1024 said:
Not likely. I have a list of things to try on my head. Some simple, some outrageous. Truth is this HD 8 has been through hell. I've reset it more times than I can count. I've nearly disected it and to be honest I'm absolutely amazed I haven't broken it yet. So I'm giving her a break from that right now.
With that said, I have an HD 7 that's rooted. I have an idea to try some things using it, that could work on non rooted 7 and up tablets, that would be totally systemless that could open up the possibilities to some things. I've been disecting the HD 7 for some ideas and plan to do some testing very soon. I'm the type that will immediately look at all settings and functions and then look through every file, folder and directory I'm able to, so we can do what many of us have already achieved. Keep an eye on me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If someone were to go so deep to a point where they took it apart, maybe it would be possible to modify the bootloader by setting up a custom one.
Sent from my KFFOWI using Tapatalk

Note8 Root yes/no

How many user have rooted the new device?
M.
I haven't rooted a phone in at least a couple years. No need anymore. On the Note 8, practically anything can be disabled, themes don't need root, there are amazing root-free adblockers now, and performance is killer. Why waste time tinkering with the phone when I can be enjoying it instead?
I rooted my phone. There is no adblocker like AdAway and I enjoy tinkering with it.
_MetalHead_ said:
I haven't rooted a phone in at least a couple years. No need anymore. On the Note 8, practically anything can be disabled, themes don't need root, there are amazing root-free adblockers now, and performance is killer. Why waste time tinkering with the phone when I can be enjoying it instead?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are many reasons for root. There always will be too.
---------- Post added at 03:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:46 AM ----------
Moniclock said:
How many user have rooted the new device?
M.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends, none in the US or with a snapdragon version. Exynos, yes, lots.
Death-Dealer said:
There are many reasons for root. There always will be too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was simply answering the question as it pertains to me.
For me, no reason to root. Only reason I did was for titanium backup but it caused more issues than it was worth. I restore with samsung backup and log back in to everything to start fresh everytime. I found that rooting to restore and start with dirty app data caused unwanted results. There is not 1 thing I need root for now days
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
root is MUST, I do not need a phone without it, period !!
Maybe, one day we can get root with AOSP out of the box. ohh, dreams !!
at least for now we have UK version Note 8 N950F that has unlocked bootloader, and works with multiple bands !! unfortunately it's the only version that supports everything, would be nice to have 256gb on board.
microsd cards is really garbage laggy crap, which will die on you anytime.
I had the S8+ and my version didn't have root, so I was forced to live without it.
I'll be getting my hands on the Note 8 in a couple of days, and my plan now is NOT to root it, regardless of whether root is available. The reason is because what I LOSE from root now outweighs what I gain from it.
The main thing that I lose from root? SECURE FOLDER!
This has become really valuable to me. I lost it after rooting the Note 7 so never really got to use it, but after having used it on the S8+, I don't think I'm willing to give it up.
Like others have already pointed out, the benefits of root aren't that important anymore:
- Titanium backup for restoring apps - mostly done by Samsung's restore, and my most important apps to port over with data have their own backup/restore functions anyway (ie. Wechat and Whatsapp)
- Other root apps like Greenify - Samsung already has similar functions built-in
- Backup of entire phone - can live without it
- custom roms - Samsung already has most of the stuff I wanted from custom roms anyway, like showing the battery percentage on notification bar, etc.
- Accessing root directory - oh well, too bad. Won't die without this ability.
Yes, I'm rooted, for AdAway mainly.
As others have said, most thing you needed root for you can do without root now. For me it was Call Recording and changing the DPI, both of which i could do perfectly on my N8 before rooting it.
I have rooted Note 4 but now do not see point why i need to do for note 8
1 Will trigger know and other samsung security services
2 The all point why Samsung not allowing to root is for security reason as it is all point how to secure you data
Just imagine you have rooted - Now phone stolen + it is rooted so you have open doors to you all content emails contacts etc "Im not sure if all right but if you have root you can access anything on the phone maybe im wrong?"
Im not programmer to use full potential of root if you do not know what are you doing -can make phone work slower that faster
all non system programs you can disable in app To remove samsung thing yes maybe will be good thing, but it is samsung phone so I can blame samsung because they put samsung services Just if do not want to use them do not use
_MetalHead_ said:
I haven't rooted a phone in at least a couple years. No need anymore. On the Note 8, practically anything can be disabled, themes don't need root, there are amazing root-free adblockers now, and performance is killer. Why waste time tinkering with the phone when I can be enjoying it instead?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL, you know this is a DEV website right? Where people hang out to root phones, because they want to. Because they enjoy it.
If you don't root then what developer will do Lol !
Anyway, loosing Spay and secure folder is currently challenging, may be some workaround appear later. Also development is at early stage so may you can wait till you find good reason for it. By the way, rooted mine almost in no time after getting it on 21st.
Brava27 said:
LOL, you know this is a DEV website right? Where people hang out to root phones, because they want to. Because they enjoy it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So THAT'S why it's called "XDA developers"? In my 7 years here you would think I'd have figured that out!
Again. I answered the question as it pertains to me. I've rooted more phones than not, I just don't feel the need anymore.

Root or Not Root that's the question

Hi together,
I am wondering which benefits I can expect from rooting my device.
One thing that comes to my mind is having an option to use face unlock for older unlock APIs.
What do you guys think?
Tirade incoming...
I'm probably in the minority, but I won't buy a phone I cannot root. The idea that the phone that I paid $1000 for up front is under the control of other companies seems wrong to me. I have full control over my computers... my ISP doesn't tell me what I can run on it and can't force me to use their DNS; Microsoft doesn't tell me that I'm breaking a EULA by running admin programs; my bank's website doesn't refuse to load because I'm running a lot of browser extensions that can modify the page. Google says they respect that people want control over their phones but they also say they respect app creator's wanting to run on an unmodified device. I throw those companies to the wind and don't look back. If only Google would stop blocking access to things and requiring us to use root to gain them back. They give and take features almost constantly and it often feels like a losing battle.
Ideology aside, there are so many small things that can be done through rooting. The next best alternative is either awkward or non-existent. I could name them off, but each thing on their own is easily dismissable is about preference. But if I had to use a phone that had none of my modifications/tweaks, I would be fairly unhappy. I don't think you'll understand the difference until you're actually changing your phone significantly as a whole then have to consider going back. A lot of things you won't know you even wanted until you find that they're possible... and a lot of things you'll look at and not even care about, despite them being popular to other people. That's what rooting is to me. Choices and options... in a world where Apple and even Google think that less is more.
I think if you're willing to experiment and put a significant amount of time in doing so, you should dive in and find out what you like. But if you're on the ropes about it, then you might not get into it.
jljtgr said:
Tirade incoming...
I'm probably in the minority, but I won't buy a phone I cannot root. The idea that the phone that I paid $1000 for up front is under the control of other companies seems wrong to me. I have full control over my computers... my ISP doesn't tell me what I can run on it and can't force me to use their DNS; Microsoft doesn't tell me that I'm breaking a EULA by running admin programs; my bank's website doesn't refuse to load because I'm running a lot of browser extensions that can modify the page. Google says they respect that people want control over their phones but they also say they respect app creator's wanting to run on an unmodified device. I throw those companies to the wind and don't look back. If only Google would stop blocking access to things and requiring us to use root to gain them back. They give and take features almost constantly and it often feels like a losing battle.
Ideology aside, there are so many small things that can be done through rooting. The next best alternative is either awkward or non-existent. I could name them off, but each thing on their own is easily dismissable is about preference. But if I had to use a phone that had none of my modifications/tweaks, I would be fairly unhappy. I don't think you'll understand the difference until you're actually changing your phone significantly as a whole then have to consider going back. A lot of things you won't know you even wanted until you find that they're possible... and a lot of things you'll look at and not even care about, despite them being popular to other people. That's what rooting is to me. Choices and options... in a world where Apple and even Google think that less is more.
I think if you're willing to experiment and put a significant amount of time in doing so, you should dive in and find out what you like. But if you're on the ropes about it, then you might not get into it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To make that clear. I rooted every android phone I owned up to now. There has been always a thing that bothered me about the stock ROM.
But this time I feel like everything is working out of the box. (Except face unlock for ing, which sux)
I get your point and you are totally right. But I'm not sure if I want to change so much and having to update on my own and other things is to much work for me.
SeppGoPro said:
To make that clear. I rooted every android phone I owned up to now. There has been always a thing that bothered me about the stock ROM.
But this time I feel like everything is working out of the box. (Except face unlock for ing, which sux)
I get your point and you are totally right. But I'm not sure if I want to change so much and having to update on my own and other things is to much work for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear you. Rooting used to be fun and easy but it's more work than I want to deal with at this point.
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using XDA Labs
It takes me longer the download the stock image to do updates with than it takes me to re-root the phone after the update. I wonder why it seems like a lot of work to you.
PS. My broadband ISP is slow....
jljtgr said:
It takes me longer the download the stock image to do updates with than it takes me to re-root the phone after the update. I wonder why it seems like a lot of work to you.
PS. My broadband ISP is slow....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It takes more time, which you actively have to spend. It's not like ow there is an update. Ok install done.
You have to go through all steps. You have to e.g. change settings in build.prop again. Flash kernel or what ever.
One example with rooted and problems with apps I'm always unsure if it's due to root or due to the rom. Stuff like this.
I don't have to do either of those things. My build.prop changes are systemlessly handled by a Magisk module that just works as soon as I'm rooted again. YMMV.
I've spent more time writing in this thread than my monthly process takes. If you don't have that time, then fine. You've answered your own question?
I've rooted all my devices except the pixel ones. There's absolutely no need for me to root a pixel device, everything is working as I want out of the box. That's one reason that development for the pixel 4/xl is nearly non existent.
ROOT! #1 reason Fingerface for fingerprint only APIs, other than that I agree the Pixel phones don't need any modifications. I hope the Pixel 5 will bring back the FP, face unlock sucks with a mask!
dave5777 said:
ROOT! #1 reason Fingerface for fingerprint only APIs, other than that I agree the Pixel phones don't need any modifications. I hope the Pixel 5 will bring back the FP, face unlock sucks with a mask!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes this would be the only reason for me.
first reason finger face
second reason motion sense..
now on android beta 2.5 not rooted
Why choose android if you are going to use a limited system?
If i could live without root i would just go iPhone way
fuarkgl3 said:
Why choose android if you are going to use a limited system?
If i could live without root i would just go iPhone way
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cause the limited system will do what most people need it to do
dave5777 said:
ROOT! #1 reason Fingerface for fingerprint only APIs, other than that I agree the Pixel phones don't need any modifications. I hope the Pixel 5 will bring back the FP, face unlock sucks with a mask!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pull it down for half a sec.
Mackay53 said:
Cause the limited system will do what most people need it to do
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again. If you are going to use a limited system why choose android over iOS?
I don't understand your reply
fuarkgl3 said:
Again. If you are going to use a limited system why choose android over iOS?
I don't understand your reply
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because many people like what Android has to offer over iOS, simple. Rooting isn't as useful as what it used to be
Does google pay work currently root? Magisk hide?
Or is that out of the question now...
xtravbx said:
Does google pay work currently root? Magisk hide?
Or is that out of the question now...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I've been reading it's going to be hard to get Google Pay to work with root. I only use root to bring back the 2 button gesture using a Magisk module. I don't know if it's worth it anymore.
xtravbx said:
Does google pay work currently root? Magisk hide?
Or is that out of the question now...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google pay works right now for me and I'm rooted running 11 beta 2.5.
fr0st420 said:
From what I've been reading it's going to be hard to get Google Pay to work with root. I only use root to bring back the 2 button gesture using a Magisk module. I don't know if it's worth it anymore.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I want to root so I can run ProtonVPN (or any VPN really) alongside Adguard. You can't run them side x side without root....
Admittedly a little sick of the whole big brother thing, so wouldn't mind obscuring my traffic a bit.

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