Database Users

Root Access, Can't Uninstall Bloatware

So I'm rooted on my Evo and as far as I can tell I've flashed the stock rom that should allow me to uninstall the bloatware, however, I dont see any uninstall options for that crap like facebook.
Anything I'm doing wrong?
I followed this guide to root and flash. I've tested my root using the "Terminal Emulator" and typing "su" and it returned a "#"
Thanks XDA, I love most of you

You know you need to uninstall from your computer using adb
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk

I've installed Android Debug Bridge but I was under the impression that rooting my phone would allow me to do things on my phone, such as install and uninstall what I want.
Could you explain the process more or send me to a link that does?

If you want to do it in android you either need console program or a file manager. Root explorer us the best one and easiest. Looks just like a typical explorer, tap the rw/ro button for read only or read write and delete away.
You have to have completed the second part of unlocking nand. Otherwise your only option is using a computer and adb in recovery.

They dont make this easy do they? I would have figured Android to be very open for things like this, I'm starting to feel like I have to "jailbreak" again, only this time it's to remove crap.
This seems like so much work to get rid of facebook and sprint tv.

It took me 10 minutes total including the file downloads. Its a one time thing and there is a learning curve with any new platform.

Aridon, is there a free explorer you'd recommend? I dont mind buying software, just want to make sure I'm not mistaken before I buy something that is worthless to me.

You get a trial on any purchased software in android. After its installed if you go backto market and pull it up again there will be a refund option. So no risk. I think its for 24 hours.
As for a free one I'm not sure when I first started messing around with android I bought it because people said it was the best. I don't have any regrets.
Just remember to tap the top button for rw. Long press brings up options. Menu had an option for multiple file select and other goodies. its very powerful.

Aridon, thanks for everything, just 1 more question. I bought it, and the program is slick. I went to /system/app and deleted facebook, is that all I need to do?
Cause I still see it in the menu
I may have done a bad thing, my phone just reset itself.... I need a trainer to be with me at all times.

So after that restart, the files I thought I deleted are back.

Yes just go into system/app, make sure it says rw up top which means read write access, then select the file, general an .apk and .odex and delete. Not all files have both and some roms don't have any .odex files.
I'll be up for another 30 min or so and I'll keep an eye on this thread in case you have any questions.

Ok that means the second part where you unlocked nand wasn't done correctly. Make sure you go slow, download the files again because they are different and watch for errors.
The only hiccup I had was when I copied the new recovery and other files to my sd and tried to adb push it gave me some kind of can't find file error. I had to reboot and it was fine. It send after the boot I could go back in and adb the files it must have been some kind if a refresh error on the sd while in recovery.
Edit. I'm responding on my evo and in bed so excuse errors.

Go to sleep, I'll resume this thread tomorrow if I'm still having trouble. You Sir, are a life saver. This is why XDA is THE FORUM for anything mobile.

Good night then.
I know it can be a bit of a pain to do this but I promise you it will be worth it. Things have only just started and the custom roms are already awesome. Once we get the source code things are going to be insane over here.

Got it! Everything is working well. However, now my voice mail says it can not download messages.... Rebooted and it's all good.
Facebook and Twitter Free! Also, no more Sprint crap.
Life is good, again.

Another terminal substitute is Android Commander, out is naturally a file explorer that allows transfer and deletion off whatever you want. This program runs in your pc.
As Was mentioned above, root explorer is the easiest way.

Aridon said:
If you want to do it in android you either need console program or a file manager. Root explorer us the best one and easiest. Looks just like a typical explorer, tap the rw/ro button for read only or read write and delete away.
You have to have completed the second part of unlocking nand. Otherwise your only option is using a computer and adb in recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So with Android - one simply deletes the application rather than un-installing it? That doesn't cause problems with the system thinking the application still exists somewhere?

DrawnToScale said:
So with Android - one simply deletes the application rather than un-installing it? That doesn't cause problems with the system thinking the application still exists somewhere?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It depends on where it is installed. /system/apps do not allow you to just uninstall you have to delete it. One this is done its gone. Obviously if you delete phone.apk you are going to have issues or if you delete a process that is running you may get a force close but for the most part unless you delete an app like people or dialer you are fine. After the single force close everything works properly.
Some custom roms moved programs to /data/app which allows them to be removed the other way.

Root Explorer - Anyone having issues with deleted files?

I have never had an issue, but a few people have commented recently (odd that it's mostly recent) that when they delete a file it seems to re-appear.
IF (and only if), you are having this issue, could you please post the version of Root Explorer you are using and the build you are running (and perhaps how you got your build, ie kies, ota, odin, flash).
I'm hoping this will lead to a common issue (not likely, worth a shot).
The most recent build is 2.12.4. I don't understand why there is a small number of people having issues. I've been trying to contact the developer as well and hope this thread will help him too.
Thanks.

Have you tried root manager?

I'm using Root Explorer - 2.10.2 with JI6. I updated through Odin. I do have root.

^^ nomad, not trying to sound rude:
"I have never had an issue"
"IF (and only if), you are having this issue, could you please post"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I had this issue with 2.12.2 and Bionix Fusion & Obsidian.

Sean what did u do to resolve it?

This is sort of ot, but Astro has decided to let me delete system apps which it never did before. I'm running fusion 1.2 stock kernel.
Don't blame me, blame my keyboard's autocorrection algorithm.

flashyp said:
Sean what did u do to resolve it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
didn't resolve it really, I wanted to delete some bloatware but I ended up just freezing the apps in Titanium Backup.

I contacted the developer *and got a super fast response*. Please make sure you are on the latest build. Please see his email pasted below.
Hi,
Thanks very much for your support, it’s much appreciated. I actually have a Galaxy S myself with Android 2.1 and have been running Root Explorer on it successfully for some months now. There was an issue a while back in that remounting the system partition didn’t work, but that was fixed in a recent update. Also, I’ve just updated to Froyo and rooted using Z4Root and Root Explorer is still working well. So on a rooted stock Galaxy S I know there are no problems.
So the question is, what is the difference on the phones where there’s a problem? Are there any major differences in the carrier specific versions? And are the problems only happening on custom ROMs? One person recently reported that Root Explorer didn’t recognise root on his Galaxy and I found that he was running a custom ROM and the su file was placed in a non-standard location.
Ok, something has just come to mind. When I first received my phone I was surprised to find that the system partition was mounted as R/W even before rooting. But of course you still don’t have permission to change system files. I’ve just replicated this situation by remounting system as R/W and renaming su to sux. I then closed Root Explorer and restarted it. It started in non-root mode and when I went to system it correctly reported the file system state as r/w but there was no “Mount R/O” button. I tried a delete and then a rename and the app reported these as having worked. But going out and back in showed that the changes didn’t actually work. I’m pretty sure this must be what’s happening for some people. So the question you need to ask them is whether they can see the mount button. If not then their phone isn’t rooted. Do you agree that this is the most likely scenario?
In the meantime I need to make a change to Root Explorer to properly check whether these operations worked and not mislead the user that the change happened.
Thanks for pointing this out. Galaxy S phones are probably the most popular out there at the moment. I think by fixing this issue there will be a lot more happy Root Explorer users!
Best Regards,
Colin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once I pointed out that users were indeed rooted and saw the button, this is the response I received:
Well that blows my theory out of the water
The actual delete is just a simple rm command so there isn’t much that can go wrong. One possibility is a dodgy BusyBox binary. I’ve seen this cause problems for a few people but it’s very rare. If BusyBox is ok then I can only guess that the remount hasn’t worked. One question to ask is whether the remount operation appears to work. If it does nothing and the mount status stays as either r/w or r/o then this may be the problem. If this is the issue then it would be useful to see the output from a mount command. I can then push this through Root Explorer in debug mode and find out what command it’s running to perform the remount.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

thanks for your help.

I'm running Root Explorer 2.12.2 on Obsidian v2.2 Froyo. I do see the Mount as R/W button, and I'm running BusyBox v1.17.1
I'm going to try re-installing BB, I'll post back if it fixes the issue.
Edit: WTH, it's working now. I had a dodgy BusyBox install.
Edit x2: And it's broken again. Weird.

The developer said there was an issue with old builds, why not update?

s15274n said:
The developer said there was an issue with old builds, why not update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Working on that now. I don't think it's an issue with Root Explorer though because if, upon the permission failure, I simply re-install BB, RE is then able to edit files again. I need to mess around with it more to be sure, but I'll update RE in the meantime.

[SM-P905][SM-P907A] Debloating bloatware after rooting + Power On sound removal

** DISCLAIMER: I AM NOT A DEVELOPER. I DO THIS AS A HOBBY AND SHARE MY FINDINGS IN CASE SOMEONE ELSE FINDS THEM USEFUL. **
** THIS WORKED ON MY DEVICE BUT IT MAY NOT WORK ON YOURS. APPLY AT YOUR OWN RISK **​** These scripts are written for Kitkat. Do not use on Lollipop. **​ What is new (9/7/2014)
Version 4 provides more Samsung bloat removal, Google bloat removal, and as a bonus it can disable the power on sound.
Background
Samsung has a program running on most of its devices that pushes "Security Updates" onto the device. If you make the mistake of accepting this security update, even after you root your tablet, it will patch the hole and you will never be able to use towelroot or any other know exploit as of June 2014 to root your it again. So this must be immediately disabled after a successful rooting.
Your tablet is also equipped with Knox. One component of Knox is in the bootloader and checks the integrity of the recovery and kernel. If it sees anything has changed at that level it trips the knox flag immediately, which is irreversible. That component can almost never be touched. The second component runs when the OS is up and running and its main task is to monitor the activities of the apps in your system and shut them down if they act "suspiciously". When you are rooted and install SuperSU, this element of Knox keeps detecting the background root activities and shuts them down and gives you warnings. There is therefore a high level of risk there if you let root and knox exist concurrently. So after rooting, this second component of Knox should normally be disabled.
Finally, there are useless junk apps that most of us agree Samsung should have never shipped with the tablet, or even if they are useful we want them gone to get a better battery life.
I will call all of the above (updaters, Knox, and useles junk) bloatware. The scripts attached here can disable or enable the bloatware on your tablet, which comes in handy if you do not have Titanium Backup Pro to freeze or remove bloatware. And since someone will ask at some point, no, it won't trip your Knox!
Please read below and understand what this script disables before you use it. There may be an app on the list that you may actually want to keep.
Requirements:
Rooted Samsung Note Pro 12.2, SM-P905 international model.
Android Terminal Emulator: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jackpal.androidterm&hl=en
The international version (P905) is tested with baseband P905XXUANA7, build P905XXUANC3 .
The ATT version (P907A) is tested with build KOT49H.P907AUCU1AND7 (thanks to @gerard0986 for testing the script)
Makes sure you download the version that is suitable for your tablet. It may work to varying extents for other models and firmwares.You try and tell me
If you are using models other than P905 or P907A, I can make a new script for you if you provide me with a "ls -R -l" dump of your /system, or even better, if you post your firmware somewhere online.
Download link:
Attached below
Instructions:
Generally speaking, you should always have a Nandroid backup before trying anything new. Also have a flashable ROM handy. I am not responsible if you brick your device while using these scripts.
To debloat:
1- Unzip the attachment and copy debloat.sh to your phone at /sdcard
2- Run the terminal emulator and type the following:
su
cd /sdcard
sh debloat.sh​3- Choose what you want to disable, or exit.
4- If you choose not to exit, the code does its thing and reboots your tablet. The bloat is gone now
To restore the bloatware:
1- Unzip the attachment and copy enbloat.sh to your phone at /sdcard
2- Run the terminal emulator and type the following:
su
cd /sdcard
sh enbloat.sh​3- The code will warn you:
Are you sure you want to restore the security/firmware/software updaters, and Knox?
They may immediately patch your system and make the existing root methods impossible to apply.
Then you can choose what to enable, or just exit.
4- If you choose not to exit, the code does its thing and reboots your tablet. The bloat is back now
Note that while running the debloat script you may get force-closing popups. This is normal; after all you are disabling these applications!
Limitations:
If you have previously removed bloat using other means this script CANNOT recover it for you. enbloat.sh can only restore what debloat.sh has disabled.
If you have debloated using an older version of this code and you want to try a newer version of it, first use enbloat from the older version to return everything to the original configuration and then use the newer version.
When you are restoring the bloat, it is best to enable "airplane mode" so that your tablet does not try to patch your system with a security update without your knowledge. You can disable the airplane mode after you debloat again.

Change log
V5:
Typos fixed.
=============
V4:
Option to disable all Google services except Youtube, search, map, and TTS
Option to disable/enable Power on sound
=============
V3:
The scripts give separate options to enable/disable these groups of bloatware:
1- Updater/knox
Firmware Upgrader, Local FOTA, Security Manager, FOTA Client, Security Update Client, Samsung Push Client, Samsung Software Update, Knox and its related apps
2- Samsung bloat
ANT, Blurb, ELM Agent, Samsung Apps apk and widget, Job Manager, Samsung cloud backup files, Context Provider, S Finder, S Voice, Samsung Account Service, aaIgnite_1.5.15_singtel, weplay_1.3.162, PCWClientS18
3- Other bloatware
Accuweather, Bloomberg, Dropbox, Evernote, Flipboard, NY Times, Remote PC, ,Travel Service, Twitter, WebEx, Line, Pinboard Scratch book, SNS, eMeeting
=============
V2:
The scripts give options to enable/disable updater/knox and other bloatware separately.
Added these to the disable list of V1:
SecurityManagerService, aaIgnite_1.5.15_singtel, weplay_1.3.162
=============
V1:
The script disables the following:
Firmware Upgrader, Local FOTA, FOTA Client, Security Update Client, Samsung Push Client, Samsung Software Update, Knox and related apps, ANT, Blurb, ELM Agent, Remote PC, Samsung Apps apk and widget,Travel Service, Twitter, WebEx, Line, Samsung cloud backup files
PCWClientS18, Scratch book, S Finder, SNS, Samsung Account, eMeeting

Would this work for the T-900 version too?

What do I need to get the info required to get a script made for the sm-p907a model? I read above post but the list of things required were above my head lol.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-P907A using XDA Free mobile app

iNiREALiZED said:
What do I need to get the info required to get a script made for the sm-p907a model? I read above post but the list of things required were above my head lol.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-P907A using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1- What is your firmware version?
2- Open the terminal emulator and type the following commands in there:
su
cd /system
ls -R -l > /sdcard/sysdump.txt
Then pm the file sysdump.txt which is saved on your sdcard to me.

thank you
Thank you najoor for the neat script, it executed successfully on my sm-p905 (UANE1 rom) & removed the useless software, it saves a lot of time removing them manually.
Nice work

Hope to see a version for the SM-P907 soon.

Rockytop00 said:
Would this work for the T-900 version too?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the only existing models are SM-P900, SM-P905, SM-P907A and SM-P905V. I don't know what T-900 is.
If you are referring to model P900 (wifi only) this code may partially work but a lot of files are different between the two models so the outcome is a partial debloat. If you want, you can make a system dump file as I suggested in this post http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=55029414&postcount=5 and send it to me so I can make a custom code for you.
Edit: It appears that T900 is the Tab pro model which is a different device. This thread is for Note pro 12.2 and since I do not own a Tab Pro I cannot answer this question. Perhaps help can be found in the XDA's Tab Pro forum at http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-tab-pro-12-10-8. or try these scripts as they are and see if it works for you.

Hey najoor, Im hoping that you can help me debloat my galaxy tab pro 12.2 sm-t900. I just bought it today and am shocked at the amount of bloatware thats included lol.
Basically I want everything removing that I can install through googleplay, leave the default browser.
Here is the log that you mentioned to the other guy also:-
View attachment sysdump.txt
Ill try to pm it also, really hope you can help out.
Pixel

Debloat method
I used this method but i accidentally uninstalled all google services, and google play store was apart of that, is that normal? And if it is are there ways to get it back?

stockerrodney said:
I used this method but i accidentally uninstalled all google services, and google play store was apart of that, is that normal? And if it is are there ways to get it back?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that is part of bloat removal. To get Google bloat back run the enbloat.sh script and hit y when it prompts you about restoring Google bloat.

stockerrodney said:
I used this method but i accidentally uninstalled all google services, and google play store was apart of that, is that normal? And if it is are there ways to get it back?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
najoor said:
Yes, that is part of bloat removal. To get Google bloat back run the enbloat.sh script and hit y when it prompts you about restoring Google bloat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If i do the enbloat method will i have to reinstall knox ? Or will i still be able to keep it off?

When you use the enbloat.sh you only restore the stuff you choose. You don't have to restore everything. In your case you leave knox and other things out and only answer yes when it asks you if you want Google bloat to be restored.
The script is very user friendly. Just run it and follow the instruction. And just to give you peace of mind, these scripts do not delete anything from your system permanently so don't worry about breaking your system.

Any chance you could add the option to remove individual items?

http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/debloater-remove-carrier-bloat-t2998294

Debloat v5.0 removed Scrapbook from Air Command
The debloat worked fine but the Scrapbook app in Air Command is now showing error "no application found to handle this actions".
Please advise.

mojoe said:
The debloat worked fine but the Scrapbook app in Air Command is now showing error "no application found to handle this actions".
Please advise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Removing apps is what a debloating script does. If you want your app back just run the enbloat script. All the instruction you need is provided in the original post.

najoor said:
Removing apps is what a debloating script does. If you want your app back just run the enbloat script. All the instruction you need is provided in the original post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciated. I wanted to debloat but did not expect the scrapbook app to be debloated. Is there any way that I can retrieve this one app, without the rest of the garbage that will return if I "enbloat".
I recall finding the app the last time and renaming from .bak to .apk and it worked.
Can you tell me where to find the apk.

mojoe said:
Appreciated. I wanted to debloat but did not expect the scrapbook app to be debloated. Is there any way that I can retrieve this one app, without the rest of the garbage that will return if I "enbloat".
I recall finding the app the last time and renaming from .bak to .apk and it worked.
Can you tell me where to find the apk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The app is either in /system/app or /system/priv-app. Rename app.apk.bac and app.odex.bac if it exists to app.apk and app.odex and reboot. I don't remember exactly which app is the one you need.

najoor said:
The app is either in /system/app or /system/priv-app. Rename app.apk.bac and app.odex.bac if it exists to app.apk and app.odex and reboot. I don't remember exactly which app is the one you need.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. I will return with the name once I find it.

[XT1528] Verizon pre-paid - temporary root achieved !

Thanks to @kryz who managed to generalize the Dirty Cow exploit, XT1528 now has a way to get temporary root : link Notice that the /system will still be read-only, but at least full access to /data is available. Given the state of XT1528, this looks like a pretty good progress!
Steps to get temp root (in Lollipop):
0) uninstall SuperSu apk if you have it installed, see thisfor the reason to uninstall
1) install Croowt.apk, use the 2nd option in the menu : "Get root"
2) install SuperSu apk from the playstore (don't update the binary)
3) install RootChecker apk from the playstore
4) enjoy temporary root (until hard reboot)
I've tested this on 5.0.2, but should probably work on 5.1.1 as well (as long as it was not patched since the end of Oct). Here is the output of Root Checker (where everything looks nice and green !) :
Device: XT1528 (MOTO E Verizon prepaid)
Android Version: 5.0.2
Additional - SELinux
Status: NOT enforcing
Status stored in /sys/fs/selinux/enforce
SuperSu works (untill hard reboot) !!!
@9acca9, @dreyeth, @Whoareyou, @bendrexl, @docna, @caspar347, @Dishe, @hp79

This is great!
Thank you @kryz

I achieved the same with AT&T variant, but very unstable though. Reboots etc.. after so long

jcpowell said:
I achieved the same with AT&T variant, but very unstable though. Reboots etc.. after so long
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This looks like the old Kingroot behavior - temp root which is highly unstable. Once after a Kingroot attempt I had to factory reset the device due to the "junk" left behind, at least here it's all nice and clean ! I wonder if forcing a soft reboot right after root may help to make it more stable ... Or perhaps something else is going on ?

No idea if anyone is looking into unlocking this phone's bootloader still but hopefully this leads to it. Happened with my Droid Turbo. The initial process was use Kingroot for temp root and sunshine to unlock.

Tried sunshine and after second test it gives an error. Won't even try

jcpowell said:
Tried sunshine and after second test it gives an error. Won't even try
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The root is very clean - after a hard reboot there won't be a single trace of anything (ha-ha, not so good if one wants a permanent solution!) So reboot, and repeat the process, see what Sunshine does. Kingroot was nasty, leaving tons of trash behind.
Perhaps, you just delete Sunshine data, and launch it again?
I've reported the issue to the developer of the rooting method, perhaps there could be tweaks to make the root more stable : link

bibikalka said:
The root is very clean - after a hard reboot there won't be a single trace of anything (ha-ha, not so good if one wants a permanent solution!) So reboot, and repeat the process, see what Sunshine does. Kingroot was nasty, leaving tons of trash behind.
Perhaps, you just delete Sunshine data, and launch it again?
I've reported the issue to the developer of the rooting method, perhaps there could be tweaks to make the root more stable : link
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a bug if you have SuperSU is installed before get the root, the restore init function will not work properly.
So the instructions in this post should be changed, and clarify that is required uninstall it.
Also ive fixed another bug related to clean the state of the system, the apk is updated in the main post.
Really after the restore clean the phone should be in a clean state, but if supersu is installed i don't know why is denying the access to the app.
Can you check this issue please?

@kryz I'm actually finding it more unstable with the updated app.

I am also having the reboot issue just after root.
Just tried the newest apk, and no reboot, but phone is laggy and unresponsive.
Uninstalled SuperSU,
Phone: XT1528, 5.1
Android Security Patch level: 2016-04-01
System Version: 23.201.2.surnia_verizon.verizon.en.US.vzw
I just attempted again, and I forgot to mention that just after I reinsert the sdcard, i get a warning that CRooWt is not responding with a Wait or Close prompt. Wait just caused another reboot.
Great work @kryz, i know you will get it sorted out. Please let me know how I can help.

Idk, as soon as I attempt to use my phone after root it freezes and reboots. If I let it sit it'll last an hour at least, lol

jcpowell said:
@kryz I'm actually finding it more unstable with the updated app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's see what's going on
-Are you using the apk or adb script?
-If you use the apk and don't restore init what happens?
-If you restore init is laggy or reboot?
-Can you try the adb script and tell me if you also get a reboot?
-Finally if you can attach these files:
/sdcard/init.dmp
/sdcard/init.patch
Regards,
---------- Post added at 01:33 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:16 AM ----------
fenlon said:
I am also having the reboot issue just after root.
Just tried the newest apk, and no reboot, but phone is laggy and unresponsive.
Uninstalled SuperSU,
Phone: XT1528, 5.1
Android Security Patch level: 2016-04-01
System Version: 23.201.2.surnia_verizon.verizon.en.US.vzw
I just attempted again, and I forgot to mention that just after I reinsert the sdcard, i get a warning that CRooWt is not responding with a Wait or Close prompt. Wait just caused another reboot.
Great work @kryz, i know you will get it sorted out. Please let me know how I can help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First about the sdcard, i will look after that bug that i know what's happening,please don't remove/mount/umount for now.
Do you have a computer to do some checks?
You say that with the new version there is not reboot but laggy, can you check if there is some process eating the cpu with top:
Code:
/data/local/tmp/busybox top
I suspect there is the last process restauring init that is eating the cpu, check for this or ;
Code:
ps | grep dirtycow
If that is the case kill it and we will know if is the responsible of that lag.
In other hand can you attach these files:
/sdcard/init.dmp
/sdcard/init.patch
Guessing that you are using the apk, what happen if you don't restore init?
Is laggy or just unstable, don't start wifi/bluetooth you can't change settings are like locked.
Have you tried the script adb version, can you try and tell me if you have the same issue?
Best regards,

Let's see what's going on
-Are you using the apk or adb script?
Apk
-If you use the apk and don't restore init what happens?
It freezes and reboots
-If you restore init is laggy or reboot?
Laggy before freezing then ultimately reboots
-Can you try the adb script and tell me if you also get a reboot?
I'm give it a shot in a bit. Was a bit unsure on how.
-Finally if you can attach these files:
/sdcard/init.dmp
/sdcard/init.patch
Here are the files
https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B26uDxbLACN6V2IzM1VvOTlnNk0
@kryz

jcpowell said:
Let's see what's going on
-Are you using the apk or adb script?
Apk
-If you use the apk and don't restore init what happens?
It freezes and reboots
-If you restore init is laggy or reboot?
Laggy before freezing then ultimately reboots
-Can you try the adb script and tell me if you also get a reboot?
I'm give it a shot in a bit. Was a bit unsure on how.
-Finally if you can attach these files:
/sdcard/init.dmp
/sdcard/init.patch
Here are the files
https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B26uDxbLACN6V2IzM1VvOTlnNk0
@kryz
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You told me before, that you got root little bit unstable but you got with the first version?
I attach a new version with some changes reverted and i think will work, tell me if you get root.
In this version doesn't ask for restore when is finish but you can do it after in tools/restore init.

kryz said:
You told me before, that you got root little bit unstable but you got with the first version?
I attach a new version with some changes reverted and i think will work, tell me if you get root.
In this version doesn't ask for restore when is finish but you can do it after in tools/restore init.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got root, but still lags a bit and reboots within minutes if I attempt to open apps etc.. unless I clean init afterwards. Then I get a bit more stability, but still reboots.

jcpowell said:
Got root, but still lags a bit and reboots within minutes if I attempt to open apps etc.. unless I clean init afterwards. Then I get a bit more stability, but still reboots.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The last check i think is try the adb script because is not using the same method.
In the apk im hijacking fsck_msdos and i don't release it, is possible that the phone detected to much time in the process and reboot it?
Have you try only check permissions, not get root, and just work with the phone to see if you get rebooted anyways, if you get rebooted i need to clean the fsck_msdos process (the sdcard check).
Thank you for testing

kryz said:
The last check i think is try the adb script because is not using the same method.
In the apk im hijacking fsck_msdos and i don't release it, is possible that the phone detected to much time in the process and reboot it?
Have you try only check permissions, not get root, and just work with the phone to see if you get rebooted anyways, if you get rebooted i need to clean the fsck_msdos process (the sdcard check).
Thank you for testing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea it reboots in the check as well.
---------- Post added at 04:36 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:05 AM ----------
I'm a little confused on the ADB. Where exactly am I extracting the rar? Onto my device internal SD?

jcpowell said:
Yea it reboots in the check as well.
---------- Post added at 04:36 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:05 AM ----------
I'm a little confused on the ADB. Where exactly am I extracting the rar? Onto my device internal SD?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it reboots just checking permissions the problem is the fsck_msdos process not the shellcode in init, i saw in the files that you attach all is ok.
I've updated the apk in the main post, now it will release the sdcard, please check that version in the same way, first before get root, click "check perm" wait to see the results and work with the phone to see if reboots again for a while.
If all is working with "check perm" and you don't get reboot, try get root, is very probably that now doesn't reboot.
I think with the adb script will work because it overwrites run-as, anyways ive updated the apk for release the sdcard check process and it'll return ok status.
The instructions for the rar and adb.
First you need adb installation in your computer, i mean connectivity with the device via adb.exe.
When you have adb working you need to put all the content of the rar in the path /data/local/tmp/.
So extract the rar in your computer in a folder and with adb push copy all the files to that folder:
(in the folder of the rar contents)
Code:
adb push * /data/local/tmp/
Then get a shell with adb:
Code:
adb shell
Execute the script to exploit it:
Code:
cd /data/local/tmp
./exploit.sh
Wait the logs and if all is ok execute:
Code:
run-as -s2
Wait 5 seconds and:
Code:
su
If all is ok you will have a root shell, this method is more stable even doesn't clean the init you can do it in the app, but test all before.

That last apk causes me immediate reboot. Maybe it was not the fsck_msdos cause I was able to do a check and not get a reboot with the debug apk you gave me. I am trying the adb method but I think I am messing up some steps. Will let you know when I get through it.

@kryz I should have some time tomorrow to test the shell commands. Thank you again for taking your time to do this.

Things to do with a rooted fire tv!!

Are you someone who just got their Fire TV rooted and don't know exactly what you can do with it being rooted? Or maybe you haven't rooted yet because you are unsure of what you can do with it rooted? Well hopefully i can shed some light on this with a little guide on things to do, along with some tips and tricks.
First let me get started by saying never forget to make a backup of your Fire TV via TWRP before making changes or tweaks. This is not to freak you out or disparage its just good practice ii have learned in rooting devices. I will cover TWRP later.
One of the best things to come along in the rooting world of android is Xposed installer. In short Xposed is a framework apk that allows users to modify/ customize their devices. This is not done by Xposed Installer per say but the modules that you download with in Xposed installer. So i will show how to install it, how to use and modules that will be beneficial use for Fire TV fyi mouse is need to navigate Xposed.
Xposed installation​
1. We need to download the following BusyBox a program that most rooted apps are dependent on here Xposed Installer v3.1.5 here along with Xposed Framework x89 sdk22 arm64 here
2. Install BusyBox however you install side loaded apks. Open BusyBox and click the install button on bottom right. On SU prompt screen grant root access. As you should for root apps you install.
3. Install Xposed Installer, there is no need to open after install because without Xposed Framework installed it doesnt work.
4 Place the Xposed v89 zip onto Fire TV internal or external storage is your choice just remember where so you can point TWRP to it.
5 Reboot into TWRP recovery, choose install, point TWRP to the Xposed zip and on right side of options choose install zip. Let TWRP run its script when it says complete simply reboot and voila Xposed is installed. NOTE it is NORMAL for the first boot to take 10 min after Xposed is installed.
Xposed Tutorial and Modules​
Open Xposed installer on be careful screen prompt click box to don't show again and ok. The 3 line icon on top left is menu button. Module option is where you can see and activate modules you install. Download option is where we search for and install modules. After you download a module Fire TV will prompt you to install. Note modules wont work until activated and a reboot.
Modules i find beneficial and know are SAFE are the following​Boot Manager- this allows for you to choose what apps start on boot.
RootCloak- this is designed to hide root app detection. Im assuming it still will hide root but could be wrong worth shot right
Xposed Edge- this is the FUN one that allows a fair share customs tweaks. My fav is remapping of remote buttons ie home button goes to alternative launcher, double tap home opens netflix. Which is great for 3rd party remotes that have a lot of buttons. NOTE There is a pro version as well Note- whenever you make changes in edge you may have to reboot for changes to effect.
DISCLAIMER be careful some modules may cause problems like bootloop and worse so research before you install modules to see if they are compatible​
Other Apps​
These are apps recommended or useful for rooted devices and for Fire TV use​ADBLink-allows you connect PC t to Fire TV via adb can install apks, push/pull files, run adb shell.
Easy Fire Tools- Android app that connects to Fire TV via adb can install apps from your android device onto Fire TV, transfer files and other features.
Root Explorer- these apps allow you to manage files but also a way to install side loaded apps, find one that is root friendly so you can access system folders if ever needed.
AdBlocker- we all know why we want one for all my rooted phones always been partial to adaway.
Alternative Home Launcher- who does like Fire TV launcher, really Karen of course you would!
TV App Repo and APK Editor- For those who do use alternative launcher i mention these because TV App Repo allows you to make bookmarks into apks. APK Editor to change the icon and name of TVApp Repo apks because the names and icons are generic.
TWRP​
Finally the benefits and how to use TWRP. This allows users to make a backup images of device and ability to restore it when **** goes wrong. You can also do a factory reset.
Backup- after you choose backup from main screen choose select storage and choose storage then click swipe to backup. These can take a while to do seemed like 20 mins or so. Whatever storage you chose will be the default storage until you change it. Note- I have a backup image and its size is 4.5gb so id recommend you need some sort of external storage for these. If there is not enough space backup can not be performed.
Restore- performed same way as backup.
Factory Reset- Just wanted to mention don't forget if you do this and have a backup image on Fire TV internal storage you will lose it.
Hope this helps out​

@g422
Thanks for the write up!!!
To be honest, the benefits of rooting appear to be somewhat underwhelming, at least, for the Fire TV. Not a single killer feature/application ...
I do know that it is more convenient to have root than not, but appears to be in pretty subtle ways.
My main use is between SmartYouTubeTV, and Netflix. If I fumble through the Amazon launcher, I am there, and life is good!
Am I missing something?

bibikalka said:
Am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you didn't read the OP He gives many examples of use for root, if those aren't valuable to you, then root isn't for you.

ldeveraux said:
Yes, you didn't read the OP He gives many examples of use for root, if those aren't valuable to you, then root isn't for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, just for the record, pretty much every tablet or phone (except a couple of real cheap deals) I have in my household are rooted! So I do see good value in root on those devices.
It's just that I struggle with root utility on Fire TV devices. As in - "why bother?"
I see that the OP likes Xposed Edge for button remapping, so if that's your cup of tea, that's a killer feature to get root for. I myself religiously correct Chrome look on tablets using Xposed/App Settings (link), which very few others seem to care about. But I want to see more of these killer features for Fire TV! Suggestions?
Btw, I am not being adversarial or critical, just very curious. Which itch are people scratching with root on Fire TV???

bibikalka said:
Hmm, just for the record, pretty much every tablet or phone (except a couple of real cheap deals) I have in my household are rooted! So I do see good value in root on those devices.
It's just that I struggle with root utility on Fire TV devices. As in - "why bother?"
I see that the OP likes Xposed Edge for button remapping, so if that's your cup of tea, that's a killer feature to get root for. I myself religiously correct Chrome look on tablets using Xposed/App Settings (link), which very few others seem to care about. But I want to see more of these killer features for Fire TV! Suggestions?
Btw, I am not being adversarial or critical, just very curious. Which itch are people scratching with root on Fire TV???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sort of see your point, but I think the root version of Mouse Toggle works, while the non-root doesn't. At least that's been my experience. Also, can you block updates without root?

I took no offense to your comments bibikalka. I am inclined to agree that there is a limit of what to do with rooted fire tv especially compared to a phone or tablet. I started this thread to give back to xda who has kept my multiple devices over years rooted. Thread was also done in hopes of getting ideas to do and/or sharing of apps that can be helpful especially now that rooting is allowed for the general masses just not those who were able to jump on board early.

ldeveraux said:
I sort of see your point, but I think the root version of Mouse Toggle works, while the non-root doesn't. At least that's been my experience. Also, can you block updates without root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.

#1 reason I root a fire TV box is so I can use large NTFS drives on the USB port.

Can someone point to me how to fix sd card write permissions. I tried xiinternalsd for xposed but when i open it goes to amazon home screen

g422 said:
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.

ldeveraux said:
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah i just re read what ya posted i see what ya meant

Imho top reasons for it are Xposed Edge Pro, ad blocking via AdAway (if you use the browser) and finally, the updates issue. While unlikely, it's not impossible for Amazon to get crackin and stop the use of certain third-party apps (NIMH is a giveaway)
Edit: forgot one important one, "debloating" the OS, whether by blocking the startup or disabling packages you don't want/need to give more cpu and memory to apps you do
Without root access, it's Amazon's device; with root access, it's now your device.

g422 said:
I used mouse toggle without rooted fire tv until i got air mouse remote. Yes you can block updates. If im not mistaken rbox prerooted roms block updates, go to check for system updates and should be stuck on checking for updates. If not go here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ldeveraux said:
Right, so blocking updates only when rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
g422 said:
yeah i just re read what ya posted i see what ya meant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For a while, updates could be blocked without root, but Amazon fixed that hole:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/general/disable-ota-fire-stick-t3667978
But! You want to block updates so you don't lose root, so it's a bit circular. If you don't have root, you don't care, and just update as per Amazon otas. Btw, I do have updates blocked on my fire sticks
Anyway, please keep the conversation going! We should develop a good set of must have features which are only available via root.

The main reason I root now is to debloat. Go as barebones as possible in order to improve performance. I kill all possible services that are absolutely unnecessary. I've removed Amazons GUI and use Appstarter. I just like a clean fast experience.

Thanks for this but u all do know u can connect to a PC wirelessly via adb without root. It's the only way I have ever added apps to my stick. Find your sticks individual ip. Open terminal on a pc, adb connect ipaddress. Then adb devices, a prompt will pop like on your phone asking to allow device or not. Click always or yes whatever. Then u do adb install draganddropwhateverapphere. Loads up in seconds depending on apk size. U can even use your phone if u have the adb platform tools magisk module installed on your phone. I install apps to my stick from my OnePlus 6t

fullofhell said:
Thanks for this but u all do know u can connect to a PC wirelessly via adb without root. It's the only way I have ever added apps to my stick. Find your sticks individual ip. Open terminal on a pc, adb connect ipaddress. Then adb devices, a prompt will pop like on your phone asking to allow device or not. Click always or yes whatever. Then u do adb install draganddropwhateverapphere. Loads up in seconds depending on apk size. U can even use your phone if u have the adb platform tools magisk module installed on your phone. I install apps to my stick from my OnePlus 6t
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummm, or you know just use the Apps2Fire app lol. No magisk module or root needed. You're welcome.

JUSTINMARMER said:
Ummm, or you know just use the Apps2Fire app lol. No magisk module or root needed. You're welcome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am saying I never need root or anything to use adb and install apps wirelessly. I have done this for the past year with NO ROOT. Don't need it for sideloading apps. Adb connect ipaddress, then adb install dragdropapp from PC into terminal. No root or magisk needed. I always have a rooted phone and that's where the magisk module comes in. On a PC u can load them to a stick out of the box.

fullofhell said:
I am saying I never need root or anything to use adb and install apps wirelessly. I have done this for the past year with NO ROOT. Don't need it for sideloading apps. Adb connect ipaddress, then adb install dragdropapp from PC into terminal. No root or magisk needed. I always have a rooted phone and that's where the magisk module comes in. On a PC u can load them to a stick out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, that's exactly what you said before. Not sure why you are repeating it.

JUSTINMARMER said:
Yep, that's exactly what you said before. Not sure why you are repeating it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cuz u aren't understanding. If u read your comments, then mine, you would see it seems u think I'm saying one would have to have root to use adb install. U do not.

fullofhell said:
Cuz u aren't understanding. If u read your comments, then mine, you would see it seems u think I'm saying one would have to have root to use adb install. U do not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is 100% incorrect. I see now you have a reading comprehension disability. I can't imagine how hard that must be for you and I empathize.
Obviously root is needed for magisk modules. I suggested an app to help all those without root.
Bless your heart.