Database Users

[Guide] Rooting Nexus 7 (Wi-Fi and 3G Edition) [Newbie-Friendly] [ADB/Fastboot]

Information: If you're experienced with ADB/Fastboot or Manual Android Rooting, you could read this thread and see if you find something that seems wrong and report to me, thanks!
Introduction​Hello there!
I decided to create a new Nexus 7 Rooting Guide, I know that there are some guides already, but I have a few reasons to make this guide.
Unlike many rooting guides, this one doesn't use an automated program (a.k.a Toolkit) and it works for both Nexus 7 Wi-Fi and Nexus 7 3G.
This guide has been tested with a Nexus 7 3G Edition, running Android 4.2.1/4.2.2.
Last Topic Update: Never
Last Minor Topic Update: Check thread edit date!
Requirements:
Nexus 7 (Wi-Fi or 3G Edition)
Android SDK
ADB/Fastboot Drivers
Unlocked Bootloader
If you don't have ADB/Fastboot drivers installed, please check out this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1907796
See Basic Knowledge and Driver Installation parts.
If you have Android SDK and ADB/Fastboot drivers installed and working, you can continue reading.
Make sure you have USB Debugging enabled in your Nexus 7.
Don't forget to unlock the bootloader!
Warning: You're the only one responsible if something bad happens to your device!
Nothing bad is going to happen, but there is always a small risk.
Personally, I recommend having +60% of Battery during ROM Changes (Flashing and etc).
I also recommend you to learn how to do a Factory Image Restore (Flash Stock ROM) before attempting to root...
Rooting your Nexus 7​
To root our device, we're simply going to put in our tablet a small program called "SuperSU", you might want to download it now to your PC:
SuperSU v1.04
Basically, we´re going to put SuperSU in /system partition, the file you downloaded is a "Flashable ZIP".
We're going to use TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) to flash the Flashable ZIP (In this case, SuperSU), after flashing SuperSU you get root privileges!
Now, go to your Android SDK Folder where Fastboot (fastboot.exe) is located (platform-tools), open a command prompt and change directories to your Fastboot location, if you need help just search on Google.
Now, you have CMD (Command Prompt) open with the Android SDK Directory, and we need to reboot your device into Fastboot mode, to do that just type the following:
adb reboot-bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're now in Fastboot Mode (a.k.a Bootloader), type the following to make sure you're in Fastboot Mode:
fastboot devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should see something like this:
Code:
> fastboot devices
# the following output should be returned
<device serial number> fastboot
Type "fastboot reboot" to reboot the device, then copy the SuperSU.zip you downloaded to your Nexus 7.
I also forgot to tell you to download TWRP, if you have the Nexus 7 Wi-Fi Edition, your board codename is Grouper, if you have the 3G Edition, your board codename is Tilapia.
TWRP for Nexus 7 [grouper]
TWRP for Nexus 7 3G [tilapia]
Copy the correct TWRP Edition to your Nexus 7, then boot into the bootloader.
Temporarily boot TWRP using the following command:
fastboot boot TWRP.img
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Replace "TWRP.img" with the correct file name.
You can also flash TWRP instead of temporarily booting.
Inside TWRP click "Install" and select the SuperSU ZIP File, then Confirm Flash.
After flashing, reboot your device and you should have SuperSU installed. (Open SuperSU just to test)
Congratulations! You now have a Rooted Device!
To make sure you have rooted, download "Root Checker" from Google Play.
Conclusion​As you can see, this tutorial is a little different from others, I explained what we were going to do and also explained the commands instead of giving you directly the commands.
This tutorial was written to teach the basics of ADB/Fastboot, I hope you rooted your device without problems and learnt/learned something, have a good day!
Feel free to give suggestions or corrections!
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.​

Just for newbies wondering what this really means:
1. install and boot into TWRP/CWM recovery means you boot up a 'mini' linux which can do whatever it wants(as root) to any of the partition on the device(including the /system one)
2. the supersu package contains 2 files(an APK and the more importantly 'su') plus some update scripts that (1) would run and copy them to the appropriate places(mainly the 'su' which is the only file that is critical)

I think you need to mention the bootloader unlock someplace.
Perhaps you can find those specific instructions in another good reference thread; but if not then, at a minimum you should put it in your prerequisites list.
In the narrative as it stands, you casually mention the other thread
[GUIDE] Flashing a Factory Image with fastboot / return to stock
but don't insist that your reader looks at that thread.
But the time for doing the unlock sequence follows the begginers first (fastboot) driver installation, so unless someone reads that thread pretty thoroughly, they will skip it in your description here, and will get stopped out at
Code:
fastboot boot TWRP.img
which needs the privileges of an unlocked bootloader. Since unlocking the bootloader currently entails performing a full-phone wipe, the consequences of that are pretty significant and shouldn't be skipped over.
cheers. Thanks.

bftb0 said:
I think you need to mention the bootloader unlock someplace.
Perhaps you can find those specific instructions in another good reference thread; but if not then, at a minimum you should put it in your prerequisites list.
In the narrative as it stands, you casually mention the other thread
[GUIDE] Flashing a Factory Image with fastboot / return to stock
but don't insist that your reader looks at that thread.
But the time for doing the unlock sequence follows the begginers first (fastboot) driver installation, so unless someone reads that thread pretty thoroughly, they will skip it in your description here, and will get stopped out at
Code:
fastboot boot TWRP.img
which needs the privileges of an unlocked bootloader. Since unlocking the bootloader currently entails performing a full-phone wipe, the consequences of that are pretty significant and shouldn't be skipped over.
cheers. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello!
Thanks for your answer, I completely forgot about the "Unlocking Bootloader" part, tomorrow when I get some time I will edit the thread...
Have a good day/night.
Edit: Added "Unlocked Bootloader" to the requisites list and a small note after "Make sure you have USB Debugging enabled in your Nexus 7", tomorrow I may edit the thread again.
Edit 2: I think the essential part is written, and because I'm a little busy, I will leave (temporarily) this thread. You're free to enhance this guide and re-publish it following Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.

Help Me Root This Thing! XT1575

I've done a lot of research on a reliable way to root my Moto X Pure Edition XT1575 and want someone to check my plan before I pursue this. I'm gonna download TWRP for Clark and superSU 2.78 and put them in the same folder and open up the command prompt in that folder. Then hook up to the PC and enter the following command "fastboot boot twrp.img" then I'm gonna replace the twrp.img with the name of the twrp file and backup to the SD. Then reboot into the bootloader again and flash twrp with fastboot "fastboot flash recovery twrp.img" then start recovery and go to reboot into recovery again to lock it in. Then I'm booting back into twrp and going to Advanced & Terminal and entering the following command "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.superSU then back home then flash superSU 2.78.
Please correct me on everything that may be wrong. If there's a better way to root, tell me how to do it your way.
My device info:
Moto X Pure Edition XT1575 (clark)
Build# MPH24.49-18
Kernel version 3.10.84
Android version 6.0
Bootloader OxAo48
Sent from my Moto X Pure Edition

ElectroJoe said:
I've done a lot of research on a reliable way to root my Moto X Pure Edition XT1575 and want someone to check my plan before I pursue this. I'm gonna download TWRP for Clark and superSU 2.78 and put them in the same folder and open up the command prompt in that folder. Then hook up to the PC and enter the following command "fastboot boot twrp.img" then I'm gonna replace the twrp.img with the name of the twrp file and backup to the SD. Then reboot into the bootloader again and flash twrp with fastboot "fastboot flash recovery twrp.img" then start recovery and go to reboot into recovery again to lock it in. Then I'm booting back into twrp and going to Advanced & Terminal and entering the following command "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.superSU then back home then flash superSU 2.78.
Please correct me on everything that may be wrong. If there's a better way to root, tell me how to do it your way.
My device info:
Moto X Pure Edition XT1575 (clark)
Build# MPH24.49-18
Kernel version 3.10.84
Android version 6.0
Bootloader OxAo48
Sent from my Moto X Pure Edition
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You've researched well. Couple things: The command is "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu", you added capitols on supersu. Next your first command of "fastboot boot twrp.img (or whatever you rename the TWRP recovery image to)" will live boot TWRP, which for our device is not necessary. Live booting is essentially booting into a custom recovery environment without actually installing the recovery. This is useful for devices that DO NOT have factory images available, which allows you to make a backup in the live environment prior to altering your device. We have factory images and factory recovery images, so you can skip this step and go right into "fastboot flash recovery twrp.img (or again, whatever you rename the recovery image to). Then after the recovery flash from within fastboot, you must reboot into recovery using the button select options within fastboot or your recovery will be overwritten by the stock recovery. Upon first boot of TWRP you'll have an option to keep your device read only or read/write. I personally choose NOT to keep it read only, rather read/write, because I don't care about taking OTA's with a custom recovery, but this is up to you. Then you'll want the supersu.zip on your device already (you want the regular standard current version, not a modded one from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/supersu/stable-2016-09-01supersu-v2-78-release-t3452703), either on your internal or external sd. And yes, prior to flashing supersu enter the command in TWRP without quotes "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu" (this prevents the bootloop that our device gets when flashing supersu in systemless mode). And your good to go. I just did this a few weeks ago from clean fastboot flashing the latest factory image, works perfectly.
Now for some clarity, I'd like someone else to chime in on the TWRP command "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu" that has to be entered. I know for sure entering the command prior works, and roots properly, but I have also read that the latest 2.78 version of supersu does not require this. I'd really like someone that KNOWS FOR SURE (no opinions) if this step can now be bi-passed, or if our device requires and will always require this step now and in the future. This will help solve a ton of questions about this issue that are spread throughout the forums so users don't have to dig to get a simple answer.

Thanks for taking the time to educate me on this. I'm gonna give it a try in a few minutes. Will I be a developer if I get it right? Hahaha I'll let you know how it goes
Sent from my Moto X Pure Edition

annoyingduck said:
You've researched well. Couple things: The command is "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu", you added capitols on supersu. Next your first command of "fastboot boot twrp.img (or whatever you rename the TWRP recovery image to)" will live boot TWRP, which for our device is not necessary. Live booting is essentially booting into a custom recovery environment without actually installing the recovery. This is useful for devices that DO NOT have factory images available, which allows you to make a backup in the live environment prior to altering your device. We have factory images and factory recovery images, so you can skip this step and go right into "fastboot flash recovery twrp.img (or again, whatever you rename the recovery image to). Then after the recovery flash from within fastboot, you must reboot into recovery using the button select options within fastboot or your recovery will be overwritten by the stock recovery. Upon first boot of TWRP you'll have an option to keep your device read only or read/write. I personally choose NOT to keep it read only, rather read/write, because I don't care about taking OTA's with a custom recovery, but this is up to you. Then you'll want the supersu.zip on your device already (you want the regular standard current version, not a modded one from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/supersu/stable-2016-09-01supersu-v2-78-release-t3452703), either on your internal or external sd. And yes, prior to flashing supersu enter the command in TWRP without quotes "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu" (this prevents the bootloop that our device gets when flashing supersu in systemless mode). And your good to go. I just did this a few weeks ago from clean fastboot flashing the latest factory image, works perfectly.
Now for some clarity, I'd like someone else to chime in on the TWRP command "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu" that has to be entered. I know for sure entering the command prior works, and roots properly, but I have also read that the latest 2.78 version of supersu does not require this. I'd really like someone that KNOWS FOR SURE (no opinions) if this step can now be bi-passed, or if our device requires and will always require this step now and in the future. This will help solve a ton of questions about this issue that are spread throughout the forums so users don't have to dig to get a simple answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It worked! I'm rooted and looking for a stable rom with a lot of features and customizations that works with Verizon LTE. I also want viper4android. I'm glad I backed up because I tried flashing a viper4android zip and it caused my phone not to boot. It just sat at the unlocked bootloader warning so I just restored it. Evidently, I was supposed to unzip the file in esfile Explorer and install the apk. I think I also needed the selinux mode changer app.
What would I gain by installing a custom Kernel to my rooted stock rom? Can I even do that?
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk

ElectroJoe said:
It worked! I'm rooted and looking for a stable rom with a lot of features and customizations that works with Verizon LTE. I also want viper4android. I'm glad I backed up because I tried flashing a viper4android zip and it caused my phone not to boot. It just sat at the unlocked bootloader warning so I just restored it. Evidently, I was supposed to unzip the file in esfile Explorer and install the apk. I think I also needed the selinux mode changer app.
What would I gain by installing a custom Kernel to my rooted stock rom? Can I even do that?
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flash ViPER4Android from here, no SELinux changing app needed: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/viperaudio-viperatmos-3-8-sq-driver-t3289075
As for custom kernel, Frankenclark. Features available is in the post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x-style/development/kernel-frankenclark-t3289939

annoyingduck said:
Now for some clarity, I'd like someone else to chime in on the TWRP command "echo SYSTEMLESS=true>>/data/.supersu" that has to be entered. I know for sure entering the command prior works, and roots properly, but I have also read that the latest 2.78 version of supersu does not require this. I'd really like someone that KNOWS FOR SURE (no opinions) if this step can now be bi-passed, or if our device requires and will always require this step now and in the future. This will help solve a ton of questions about this issue that are spread throughout the forums so users don't have to dig to get a simple answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I literally did this to a fresh MXPE two weeks ago... misspelled the filename so it wasn't recognized (it isn't supersy apparently), and flashed SuperSU 2.78-SR1, rebooted and stuck at boot logo for 20 minutes. Rebooted into TWRP and entered the correct echo command to create the .supersu file and reboot, it looped twice quickly and then went to the lockscreen after a 2-3 minutes.

Tips and Tricks [Google Pixel] (sailfish)

New device new rules/tricks
The main purpose for this thread is to post info that doesn't real justify it's own thread.
Most of what is posted is what interests me, usually in no particular order.
If you think something is missing, please share (include links or as much info you can)
General Info
Index
Have a question? Please consider asking in the
Help Thread
How to Check if you have a Verizon or Google Model from CID info
Custom Recovery info
FAQs
USB Drivers
Using ADB and Fastboot commands
Unlocking the Bootloader
Rooting
WiFi Tether
Installing new security update with fastboot.exe for a bootloader-unlocked Pixel
[GUIDE] Restore to stock after soft BRICKED Written for XL version, but a good reference
Set/Change Active System Partition with Fastboot Command in Bootloader Mode
[Re]Activate Google Voice on Pixel
46 Google Pixel XL & Google Pixel Tips and Tricks (www.droidviews.com)
https://www.androidpit.com/google-pixel-tips-and-tricks

USB Drivers for using ADB/Fastboot commands
If using Mac or Linux drivers should not be an issue.
If using Windows 10 correct drivers should already be installed but you likely will need to select them in Device manager
If drivers are correct the Pixel should be listed in Device Manager as
Android Phone
adb composite interface
An easy way to install correct drivers on a Windows PC is using
[TOOL] [WINDOWS] ADB, Fastboot and Drivers - 15 seconds ADB Installer v1.4.3 by Snoop05
Official Google Drivers

Unlocking the Bootloader - 06 Nov 2016
If it's a pure Google device just run
Code:
fastboot oem unlock
If you bought the Pixel from Verizon, Best Buy.... dePixel8 method will be required to unlock the bootloader
Note: Verizon, Build Version NDE63X, Nov 2016 can be unlocked,Builds after that cannot.
Using dePixel8
Be sure Drivers are correct
Change screen timeout to 30 mins in settings/display options
Enable Developer Options
In Settings/About Phone >Tap build version until it says "you are developer"
go back to main Settings screen
Open Developer Options
Enable ADB Debugging (in Developer Options)
Be sure ADB and Fastboot commands are working
Download dePixel8
Run in Command prompt
Code:
adb push dePixel8 /data/local/tmp
Code:
adb shell chmod 755 /data/local/tmp/dePixel8
then
Code:
adb shell /data/local/tmp/dePixel8
when you see
Code:
[+] getting there, about 20 more seconds please
open the Chrome app on the phone
then you should see
Code:
[+] done
[+] rebooting your device to bootloader mode
[+] run "fastboot oem unlock" to unlock your bootloader
[+] P.S. Pixel is made by HTC, and dePixel8 was made by beaups
[+] cheers jcase - copyright Streamlined Mobile Solutions, LLC
Discussion Thread: BL unlock for Verizon Pixel just released by murryrulz
Do not relock the bootloader
[PSA] Read before relocking your bootloader by jcase

Rooting
Requires Unlocked Bootloader
[ROOT] SuperSU by Chainfire

Hotspot/WiFi Tether
Hotspot should work out of the box for most data plans except Unlimited Data plans
Verizon Unlimited Data Plans
Rooted method
Make sure your bootloader is unlocked and you are rooted.
Instal a Root File Manager (Root Browser / ES File Explorer)
enable root access in File Manager (it's off by default in some)
browse to /System > Long press build.prop > Open in Text Editor
Scroll all the way to the bottom. Type in "
Code:
net.tethering.noprovisioning=true
.. Then save and exit. Reboot the phone and you're good to go.
Discussion Thread: Pixel Hotspot by polo2883
[Mod][Systemless Root][Pixel/Pixel XL] TetherMod - Bypass provisioning checks. by Fenny
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/themes/mod-tethermod-systemless-install-guide-t3501448
Non Root method
Verizon native tether subscription bypass A Pixel XL thread
Sprint WiFi Tethering Thread
[ROOT/Guide] Native Hotspot Working by stuntnmore A Pixel XL thread

Setting up and Using ADB/Fastboot (Android Debugging Bridge)
For Mac or Linux: see Can ADB/Fastboot be used on Linux and Mac?
Setting up ADB/Fastboot (Windows)
[Index] Setting up and Using ADB/Fastboot
Using ADB/Fastboot
adb commands are used in normal boot/OS or in Recovery
fastboot commands are used in fastboot/bootloader mode
Set/Change Active System Partition with Fastboot Command in Bootloader Mode
Code:
Fastboot set_active _a
Code:
Fastboot set_active _b

Installing new security update with fastboot for a bootloader-unlocked Pixel.
Note: This is a work in progress, but it should be correct.
Even if it works for the Nov update, it may need to be written for future updates
Problem:
If you have modified the stock firmware (hosts file, root, kernel, etc.), the OTA update likely will fail
Solution:
This does not factory reset, user apps and data are not removed.
This will remove your custom kernel/root/hosts/recovery...
Install Verify Drivers
see post #2
Setup ADB.exe see
[Index] Setting up and Using ADB/Fastboot
[INFO] How I restored to stock after soft bricking, then flashed new kernel & rooted by CZ Eddie
Download the system image for Sailfish (Pixel) from google
For November update, there are 3 versions:
NDE63U Europe
NDE63V US, except Verizon
NDE63X Verizon
Unzip the file
Unzip xxxxxxnde63v.zip from inside the new directory/folder
Copy files to same folder as adb.exe files (unnecessary if adb is setup as global)
Open open Command Prompt (with same directory path as firmware files)
Reboot into bootloader
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
or
Power off, Hold volume down button, power on
check your boot slot (_a or _b) and following line may need to be adjusted?
Code:
system_b system_other.img
Execute fastboot commands
Code:
fastboot flash bootloader bootloader-sailfish-*.img
fastboot reboot-bootloader
fastboot flash radio radio-sailfish-*.img
fastboot reboot-bootloader
fastboot flash boot_a boot.img
fastboot flash boot_b boot.img
fastboot flash system system.img
fastboot flash system_b system_other.img
fastboot flash vendor vendor.img
fastboot flash modem modem.img
fastboot reboot
Custom Kernel, Root, and other mods will need to be reflashed
Credit
[GUIDE] Update with fastboot by @firewave

Custom Recovery
Twrp links
TWRP RC1 for Pixel Devices
https://plus.google.com/+DeesTroy

Thanks a lot for this thread. Very helpful for updating my pixel. Have linked it a few times to help out. This thread should be stickied.

GeekMcLeod said:
Thanks a lot for this thread. Very helpful for updating my pixel. Have linked it a few times to help out. This thread should be stickied.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, hope it helps.
It is linked in the index

sd_shadow said:
check your boot slot (_a or _b) and following line may need to be adjusted?
Code:
system_b system_other.img
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be clear, you want the one used to match the one you're currently set to right? (My bootloader specifies boot slot a.)

sturmeh said:
To be clear, you want the one used to match the one you're currently set to right? (My bootloader specifies boot slot a.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did it the other way. System other seemed like it shouldnt be your boot slot. I updated it already and it's working so I think I got it right.

GeekMcLeod said:
I did it the other way. System other seemed like it shouldnt be your boot slot. I updated it already and it's working so I think I got it right.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so boot slot was a in bootloader?
you use b command?
is it now b in bootloader?
Sent from my XT1254 using XDA Labs

the Pixel has 2 system slots/partitions,
in theory you could have 2 different roms to choose from, that maybe an option in a future version of twrp
Sent from my XT1254 using XDA Labs

sd_shadow said:
so boot slot was a in bootloader?
you use b command?
is it now b in bootloader?
Sent from my XT1254 using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, my bootloader still says my bootslot is a.

GeekMcLeod said:
No, my bootloader still says my bootslot is a.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, sounds good
Sent from my XT1254 using XDA Labs

new
[Mod][Systemless Root][Pixel/Pixel XL] TetherMod - Bypass provisioning checks. by Fenny
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/themes/mod-tethermod-systemless-install-guide-t3501448
Sent from my sailfish using XDA Labs

I just tried reverting to stock and my phone is stuck in a bootloop and then eventually gets stuck on dead android with No command text. I followed all directions to the dot and I'm on boot slot b. Any ideas?
---------- Post added at 11:04 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:43 AM ----------
Ok so I followed GeekMcLeod's advice about flashing system-other to the opposite partition. Since I was on boot_b I change the line in the OP to flash system_a and now my phone is booting. @sd_shadow I'm not sure if this is the case for everyone.

Just a short story about my experience so far with the Pixel.
When i first got my device it wanted to update. I let it update (OTA) and rebooted. Once that was done, I unlocked the bootloader, booted TWRP flashed it, rebooted TWRP and then flashed root. All was awesome, I went to reboot and noticed that TWRP shows which boot slot you're in (I was in B). I rebooted anyway and everything works as expected.
I was curious, so I booted back into TWRP, went to reboot and changed the boot slot to A, got an error but checked it again and it shows I was in fact in boot slot A. So i rebooted... it booted into non rooted, pre update android... so it looks to me that this seamless update system applies the update the opposite partition that your in. So if you're in A and take an OTA it applies it to B and then reboots into B (updated) and the opposite will happen if you take the OTA while in B. All apps and data you've collected is shared with either system partition.
So, in theory we could take the OTA as long as we flash the recovery and (possibly) boot images before downloading and applying it. We would only have to flash TWRP and root again.
And I agree, it looks like we should be able to dual boot two different ROMS, maybe even kernels without too much messing around.
I'm sure this is not new news but I just wanted to share and maybe someone will correct me or learn from it.

thanks for the replies, good stuff
Sent from my sailfish using XDA Labs

TWRP is almost here. Are You Ready?

Looks like TWRP will be here soon:
https://plus.google.com/+DeesTroy
#TWRP Pixel update 4
Decrypt is working, shouldn't be too much longer.

I was wondering why there is no custom rom , I am happy to hear TWRP is around a corner

Right on!

Yeah, can't wait
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

My Pixel should be here in a week and a half, looks like TWRP may be out before it gets here!!!

Obviously don't do this but is this real? I found this googling some stuff about twrp.
http://rootoreviews.com/root-Google-Pixel-XL-install-twrp-custom-recovery
In the post it goes on to say the following,
Steps to install TWRP on Google Pixel XL
Goto official TWRP page and download twrp-2.8.x.x-xxx.img file for your Google Pixel XL. Keep twrp-2.8.x.x-xxx.img file in a separate folder.
Your PC must have ADB & fastboot installed and configured. For quick installation try 15 Second ADB installer. Download link
Now connect your device to your PC and goto twrp folder and press and hold shift then rightclick on white space and "Open command window here".
Now type following commands at command prompt.
"adb reboot bootloader" - to boot your device into bootloader.
after booting into bootloader type "fastboot flash recovery twrp-2.8.x.x-xxx.img" - this will flash TWRP recovery on your Google Pixel XL.
"fastboot reboot" - to reboot your device.
After reboot type "adb reboot recovery" - to boot into recovery mode.

There's no twrp to download, so at this time it's just instructions.

thewebsiteisdown said:
Obviously don't do this but is this real? I found this googling some stuff about twrp.
http://rootoreviews.com/root-Google-Pixel-XL-install-twrp-custom-recovery
In the post it goes on to say the following,
Steps to install TWRP on Google Pixel XL
Goto official TWRP page and download twrp-2.8.x.x-xxx.img file for your Google Pixel XL. Keep twrp-2.8.x.x-xxx.img file in a separate folder.
Your PC must have ADB & fastboot installed and configured. For quick installation try 15 Second ADB installer. Download link
Now connect your device to your PC and goto twrp folder and press and hold shift then rightclick on white space and "Open command window here".
Now type following commands at command prompt.
"adb reboot bootloader" - to boot your device into bootloader.
after booting into bootloader type "fastboot flash recovery twrp-2.8.x.x-xxx.img" - this will flash TWRP recovery on your Google Pixel XL.
"fastboot reboot" - to reboot your device.
After reboot type "adb reboot recovery" - to boot into recovery mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I remember correctly at least for my old note 4 you needed to have at least twrp 3.0.x to be able to install mm so taboos looks super fake right off the hop
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

kkeith said:
If I remember correctly at least for my old note 4 you needed to have at least twrp 3.0.x to be able to install mm so taboos looks super fake right off the hop
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I was thinking too. My s5 was on version 3.0.22 I believe.

Might be another week or so before it's beta is released

Can't wait! This and Xposed and I'll be in my glory.

It's here! You can now download TWRP. :good:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/development/twrp-alpha1-pixel-devices-t3500312

CZ Eddie said:
It's here! You can now download TWRP. :good:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/development/twrp-alpha1-pixel-devices-t3500312
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice! May the rom flood gates be open!
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Well maybe now I'll have a reason to figure out how to root my Verizon version.

This gives me just enough reason to ignore updating from NDE63P to NDE63X since I am already unlocked and rooted (and there is nothing in NDE63X that is a deal breaker for me). Once the TWRP bugs are worked out and some custom ROMs star rolling...

the TWRP that is out is pure ALPHA, and NOT for those very experienced with ADB and fastboot, so if you are a N00b of ANY sort, be very very careful when flashing this, or, the smarter thing to do is just read, read, and wait until a "mainstream" version gets released..
there is really nothing to flash at this point, so be patient, and make sure you are 100% comfortable with how to restore your phone if you bork it trying to flash this right now..

The TWRP thread was just cleaned. TWRP comes out and people just lose their minds. It is amazing how many people will just start doing stuff to their phone with no idea how or why.

Yea twrp is super temperamental right now also root don't work with it so just hold off honestly

Looks like the Alpha release is out.

A root was released a little while ago by Chainfire that is compatible with TWRP.
I haven't tried it yet.
I agree that newbs should not be jumping on it yet.
There is not much to be gained by having TWRP until ROM's are released.

[GUIDE] Unlock/Flash/Root for the Pixel 2 (walleye)

Introduction
Hello everyone, this is a guide to assist you with customizing your Pixel 2! I will be going over installing fastboot and adb, unlocking your bootloader, how to flash the factory images for clean flashes and upgrades, and how to root. Please feel free to ask any questions if you need clarification. Enjoy!
This information has been distilled from Google's official factory image site and the Magisk thread.
Installing fastboot and adb
Thankfully, Google has provided just adb, fastboot, and systrace as a simple zip file, making this process super easy. You MUST be on at LEAST 26.0.2 for the commands in this guide to work. When in doubt, grab the latest copy and install them using the following instructions.
SDK Platform-Tools for Windows
SDK Platform-Tools for Mac
SDK Platform-Tools for Linux
Windows:
Unzip the folder somewhere on your hard drive.
Go to the folder containing the adb and fastboot files and type "cmd" in the path bar at the top.
A command prompt should open with the current folder showing on the prompt.
Type the following commands:
Code:
adb --version
fastboot --version
You should see some information appear. If that is the case, you were successful!
Mac/Linux:
Unzip the folder somewhere on your hard drive.
Navigate to that folder with your terminal.
Run the following commands:
Code:
sudo install adb dmtracedump e2fsdroid etc1tool fastboot hprof-conv make_f2fs mke2fs mke2fs.conf sload_f2fs sqlite3 /usr/local/bin
sudo mkdir -p /usr/local/lib64
sudo install lib64/libc++.so /usr/local/lib64
Type the following commands:
Code:
adb --version
fastboot --version
You should see the version information, along with telling you they are installed to /usr/local/bin. If so, you were successful!
Unlocking the bootloader
WARNING: This WILL wipe your entire phone. Please make copies or backups of any important data. This can also go wrong rendering your device inoperable. Proceed with caution.
On your phone, open Settings, navigate to "System" then "About phone", and tap on the build number 7 times.
Go one menu up, click on "Developer options", and turn on USB debugging and OEM unlocking.
In your terminal, type the following command:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
Run the following command:
Code:
fastboot flashing unlock
Follow the prompts on your device then reboot!
Flashing factory images
NOTE #1: You CANNOT downgrade factory images. Google has prevented users from doing so to keep them safe from vulernabilities that were patched. You should only upgrade or reinstall the current image.
NOTE #2: If you have mounted /system as rw at any point (like in TWRP), you must upgrade using the factory image method. OTAs will fail because they cannot verify the integrity of the disk since its verity data has been changed.
NOTE #3: Flashing the factory images requires an unlocked bootloader. Flashing the OTA zips does not (but if anything goes wrong, you may not be able to recover without an RMA).
Updating to a new release (factory image):
Download the latest factory image from Google's website.
Reboot into the bootloader:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
Unzip the factory image.
Inside you will see a bootloader image, a radio image, an image zip file, and a couple of flash scripts.
If you are on Windows, open the "flash-all.bat" file in a text editor. If you are on Mac or Linux, open the "flash-all.sh" instead.
Remove the "-w" flag before the fastboot command towards the end of the file. This will prevent fastboot from formatting your device.
Run the flash all script! Open a command prompt, navigate to the folder with the script, and run one of the following commands:
Windows:
Code:
flash-all
Mac/Linux:
Code:
./flash-all.sh
Reboot once it is finished!
Updating to a new release (OTA zip):
Download the latest OTA zip from Google's website
Reboot into recovery:
Code:
adb reboot recovery
Hold down the power button and push volume up
Select "Apply update from ADB"
Run the following command from the folder containing the OTA zip:
Code:
adb sideload <zip_name>.zip
Reboot once it is finished!
Clean flashing a factory image (wipe everything):
Download the latest factory image from Google's website
Reboot into the bootloader:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
Unzip the factory image.
Run the flash all script! Open a command prompt, navigate to the folder with the script, and run one of the following commands:
Windows:
Code:
flash-all
Mac/Linux:
Code:
./flash-all.sh
Reboot once it is finished!
Rooting with Magisk
NOTE #4: This section assumes you are not going to install TWRP. If you are, skip to the next section and just flash the latest Magisk zip after installing TWRP.
Download the Magisk zip from the official thread and install the manager from the zip.
Grab a boot image to patch (either the one from the latest factory image or a custom kernel one) and push it to your device:
Code:
adb push <path_to_file> /sdcard/Download
Open Magisk Manager and click the Install button.
Click "Install" at the first prompt then choose "Patch Boot Image File". A file manager will pop up.
Select the boot image you want to patch and let Magisk Manager patch it.
Pull it off your device:
Code:
adb pull /sdcard/MagiskManager/patched_boot.img
Reboot into the bootloader:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
Flash the boot image and reboot.
Code:
fastboot flash boot patched_boot.img
fastboot reboot
Open Magisk Manager and you should be rooted!
Installing TWRP
NOTE #5: If you just want to temporarily boot TWRP to flash Magisk and your custom kernel, you can just skip flashing the installer zip in this process.
NOTE #6: TWRP can be unstable at times given the way that security has been set up on this device (lack of decryption, failing to boot, etc).
Download both the TWRP image and zip installer from the official site.
Temporarily boot the TWRP image.
Code:
fastboot boot <path_to_twrp_image>
Flash the TWRP installer zip.
Reinstall Magisk and your custom kernel if you had them.
Reboot and profit!
Common issues
Outdated fastboot/adb: This device requires the latest fastboot and adb binaries to work properly. A lot of common quick adb/fastboot installation guides link to installers that are old. Please manually install the latest using the information at the beginning of the thread!
Using a USB-3.0 or USB-C port: Some newer USB ports do not work with fastboot. Issues manifest as weird errors during a flash. Use a different USB cable/port.
Closing statements
If there are any procedures you would like to see added (like flashing a custom kernel or booting TWRP), I am happy to add them if requested. Also, when requesting help, please be as specific as possible where you get confused. I want this guide to be clear as possible.

Reserved

Reserved

Stuck on this step
Run the flash all script! Open a command prompt, navigate to the folder with the script, and run one of the following commands:
How do I navigate in command prompt? When I typed flash-all, it said it is not a internal command etc. When I dragged and dropped flash-all into the command prompt, it said C:\Users\W Balls\Downloads\SAMPWND_SYSTEMROOT_ADB_FILES>"C:\Users\****** Jim\Downloads\walleye-opd1.170816.025-factory-4752baae\walleye-opd1.170816.025\flash-all.bat"
error: cannot load 'bootloader-walleye-mw8998-002.0059.00.img'
rebooting into bootloader...
OKAY [ 0.004s]
finished. total time: 0.004s
error: cannot load 'radio-walleye-g8998-00122-1708311414.img'
rebooting into bootloader...
OKAY [ 0.010s]
finished. total time: 0.015s
W/ ( 6448): Unable to open 'image-walleye-opd1.170816.025.zip': No such file or directory
error: failed to open zip file 'image-walleye-opd1.170816.025.zip': I/O Error
Press any key to exit...

You are calling the flash-all.bat out of a differende directory (C:\Users\W Balls\Downloads\SAMPWND_SYSTEMROOT_ADB_FILES) therefore it can't find the system image files since they are located under C:\U sers\****** Jim\Downloads\walleye-opd1.170816.025-factory-4752baae\walleye-opd1.170816.025. Make sure you extract your image to that directory, open up a command promt and navigate to it with "cd C:\Users\W Balls\Downloads\SAMPWND_SYSTEMROOT_ADB_FILES" and call the flash-all.bat from there.
Check out this for basic command line stuff https://www.digitalcitizen.life/command-prompt-how-use-basic-commands
---------- Post added at 10:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:56 AM ----------
I tried this and it seems the magisk manager isn't able to download magisk on its own at least on my device:
Code:
DownloadManager: [356] Stop requested with status HTTP_DATA_ERROR: Unable to resolve host "forum.xda-developers.com": No address associated with hostname
DownloadManager: [356] Finished with status WAITING_TO_RETRY
EDIT: Seems like DNS66 was blocking the download patching was scucessfull now.
This is weird, can't I make 2 posts in a row??

Anybody figure out a solution for flashing when on MacOs High Sierra? Platform tools 26.0 1 was a fix for high Sierra, yet 26.0.2 seemed to have lost that commit, so fastboot doesn't work at all. Wondering if it's safe to use 26.0.1 on the pixel 2

nathanchance said:
Flashing factory images
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, thanks for putting this together. I've rooted using your method.
Regarding OTA updates: I've read that if we've rooted, we will need to un-root before we can receive an OTA update. Is this always true, or only if we've installed a custom recovery like TWRP? It would be really handy to have a guide on how to un-root, update, then re-root.
Related - let's say that for whatever reason, we have to flash an OTA update manually, rather than actually getting it OTA. Do we lose root by doing so?
Thanks!

JayBlack_686 said:
First, thanks for putting this together. I've rooted using your method.
Regarding OTA updates: I've read that if we've rooted, we will need to un-root before we can receive an OTA update. Is this always true, or only if we've installed a custom recovery like TWRP? It would be really handy to have a guide on how to un-root, update, then re-root.
Related - let's say that for whatever reason, we have to flash an OTA update manually, rather than actually getting it OTA. Do we lose root by doing so?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Magisk's OTA section should clear up some of your doubts: https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tips.md#ota-installation-tips

nathanchance said:
Magisk's OTA section should clear up some of your doubts: https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tips.md#ota-installation-tips
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks really straightforward, thank you! Might be cool to point to it in the OP. I bet I'm not the only one who was only vaguely aware of the impact that rooting has on how we get OTAs. Then again, maybe everyone else wants to run custom ROMs.

JayBlack_686 said:
Looks really straightforward, thank you! Might be cool to point to it in the OP. I bet I'm not the only one who was only vaguely aware of the impact that rooting has on how we get OTAs. Then again, maybe everyone else wants to run custom ROMs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point, I'll add it here in a bit
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs

OTA vs factory image
Howdy,
really appreciate @nathanchance for putting this together. Would you mind adding a few lines about the differences between OTA and factory images. As a layman i haven't got the foggiest idea which route to go and would appreciate some wisdom. Thanks!

Thank you so much for this guide but can anybody please explain how you can tell which image to patch ?
I am unable to get this to work magisk is showing this message: stock kernel cannot be patched please use a custom kernel
i downloaded: walleye-opd1.170816.010-factory-63083164.zip
unsure as to whether this is correct for my phone as they are quite a few and its unclear how to tell
i have a pixel 2 from the UK that was factory unlocked and i unlocked the boot loader
what am i doing wrong please help

tango650 said:
Howdy,
really appreciate @nathanchance for putting this together. Would you mind adding a few lines about the differences between OTA and factory images. As a layman i haven't got the foggiest idea which route to go and would appreciate some wisdom. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The primary difference is that the OTA can be flashed on an unlocked bootloader and is designed not to wipe your phone.
UpGrad3 said:
Thank you so much for this guide but can anybody please explain how you can tell which image to patch ?
I am unable to get this to work magisk is showing this message: stock kernel cannot be patched please use a custom kernel
i downloaded: walleye-opd1.170816.010-factory-63083164.zip
unsure as to whether this is correct for my phone as they are quite a few and its unclear how to tell
i have a pixel 2 from the UK that was factory unlocked and i unlocked the boot loader
what am i doing wrong please help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you supplying the boot image to Magisk? Show me a screenshot of what Magisk says when it tries to patch.

Thanks @nathanchance for this. I'm not a technical person, but can follow directions. This is the 4th phone that I've rooted following directions of some very smart and talented people here on XDA. I don't do this kind of thing everyday, and am not up on programming or coding or whatever you guys call it now days.
All I ended up doing is taking the OTA from Google to the .025. Then followed the Magisk rooting instructions to get root. I had Unlocked it the first day I turned the phone on, I haven't put my SIM in yet, but will play around with it a little more, and finish setting it up,
Again, thanks for the GUIDE to this Pixel 2 phone.

nathanchance said:
The primary difference is that the OTA can be flashed on an unlocked bootloader and is designed not to wipe your phone.
Are you supplying the boot image to Magisk? Show me a screenshot of what Magisk says when it tries to patch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is what i get. I have even flashed the whole factory image to the phone and still get this

@UpGrad3 you need to extract the boot.img out of your zip (walleye-opd1.170816.010-factory-63083164.zip) file and process this one, I'll guess you tried with the whole zip?? Also you can "attach" pictures to the post and not include the full res with the image tags...

@drmason I did extract the img from the zip. I followed the instructions exactly which is why im so confused as to what is going on ? Ok sorry i will do in future.
Amended post

UpGrad3 said:
@drmason I did extract the img from the zip. I followed the instructions exactly which is why im so confused as to what is going on ? Ok sorry i will do in future.
Amended post
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You got the boot.img from the zip file that was inside the zip file?
from https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=74429474&postcount=90
Step by step
1. Download and extract factory image. Mine was taimen-opd1.170816.010-factory-c796ddb4.zip
***2. Once extracted go into the folder and extract image-taimen-opd1.170816.010.zip.
There you will find the boot.img.
---------- Post added at 08:36 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:27 AM ----------
nathanchance said:
Good point, I'll add it here in a bit
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@nathanchance, one more suggestion for the OP: at one point I was looking at using the stock boot img and couldn't figure out how to get it. Later, I found the below post, where the first two steps are essentially "open the zip inside the zip for the boot.img" to extract the stock boot image. Maybe it's really obvious, but I didn't get it.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=74429474&postcount=90

@UpGrad3 you are using the latest Magisk Manager 5.4.1 for this?

JayBlack_686 said:
You got the boot.img from the zip file that was inside the zip file?
from https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=74429474&postcount=90
Step by step
1. Download and extract factory image. Mine was taimen-opd1.170816.010-factory-c796ddb4.zip
***2. Once extracted go into the folder and extract image-taimen-opd1.170816.010.zip.
There you will find the boot.img.
---------- Post added at 08:36 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:27 AM ----------
this is where i was going wrong i was using a file that had bootloader in the name rather than going into the second zip and finding boot
@nathanchance, one more suggestion for the OP: at one point I was looking at using the stock boot img and couldn't figure out how to get it. Later, I found the below post, where the first two steps are essentially "open the zip inside the zip for the boot.img" to extract the stock boot image. Maybe it's really obvious, but I didn't get it.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=74429474&postcount=90
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
drmason said:
@UpGrad3 you are using the latest Magisk Manager 5.4.1 for this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes i was
although im now stuck on the bootscreen with the G any suggestions ?
Fixed.
incase it happens to anyone else. i restored the factory image again then started the root procedure. im now rooted and fully working