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So, I have been using an S3 {yeah S3 , i know old, but duh i just love it } for over 3 years now . I started out as a complete noob, still am, and S3 was the first phone that i started working on. Over the years i have tried many custom ROM's , Kernel's and MOD's and i have tried here to create a List of Best Performing Custom Items over the course of 1 year, with special care for people like me who have just started out in the world of android, So here goes. {in 4 steps} :-
<1> Best "FAIL-SAFE" Method of Rooting/Installing a custom ROM - I know most of the people are afraid of bricking their device's, the first time they root. I have been in that situation and had my phone soft bricked many times while trying out different thing's. So the Most FAIL-SAFE Method that i have come up with is this:-
Many people suggest rooting the devices first and then installing a custom ROM. I have tried to do things a little differently so that the first timers can get comfortable.
A. First thing to do is install CyanogenMod on your specific devices. [without rooting] , The developers at cyanogen have made an application to directly install Cyanogen to your devices from your PC like a regular Software Install. The Link and the Instructions can be found on the official Website - http://get.cm. The process is very simple and easy to do and after the install your device gets automatic root access. The xda thread - http://http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/app-cm-app-installer-t2959922 - {you get CM - 11 from this download }
B. Now that your device is has CyanogenMod, you get a rooted device and a custom ROM. But the problem with Cyanogen is that the Custom recovery which it provides has very limited options available. So the next step is to go to Google Play Store and download "TWRP Manager" or "ROM Manager" [i personally use TWRP]. This application will help you to Install the TWRP or CWM recoveries on your Phone. The process is fairly simple, After Installing the App, Choose your Device Model and Version and Let the app do the rest of the work. PS the apps require ROOT access which your phone can provide now.
C. By now if all the steps are performed correctly [very less chance of something going wrong because most of the tings are done automatically] your respective device should have a custom Recovery installed. Next and Most important step is to Create a NANDROID BACKUP [basically an ultimate backup to restore everything]. Go to recovery mode [Home+Volume up + Power button] and select backup, and make a complete backup on your SD card. It's really important to create a Backup before doing anything. This step must not be skipped in any case.
D. Now it's time to let your imagination run wild xD, Download custom ROM's, Kernel's MOD's etc and just copy the zip's to the SD card and install them using the recovery. In case anything goes wrong Just restore from the Backup you made earlier.
[PS: Update your backup's regularly]
<2> Now's the list of My Personal Favorite's which Have Improve the overall Performance of My Phone Greatly. All the ROM's, Kernel's etc have been personally tested by me for over 3 month's for Issues related to Stability, Performance and Bug's . I have tried to put forward the Best package for optimal performance.
1. Recovery [doesn't affect much] - - TWRP Recovery: Personally "Team Win Recovery Project (TWRP)" is my favorite because of it's easy to use touch control's , it's efficiency and Design. I like the cool blue texture theme of TWRP and the speed with which it create's backup and install's new things. The performance of the Phone does no depend upon the Recovery though and you may choose whichever recovery you are comfortable with.
2. ROM - BlissPOP v4.0.3 (CM 12.1 base) : Yes i have chosen this ROM out of the many other i tried. The reasons are very simple, This ROM provides outstanding stability and Performance to the device. There is no bloatware in the ROM and there are simply hundred's of features available for customization. It's compatible with generally all the Kernel's and Mods available for your device and the regular Nightlie's are an added bonus. It's the only ROM based on Lollipop(5.1.1) in which i haven't found any Bug's or stability issues.
Many people told me to try Paranoid ROM but personally i find Paranoid a little buggy, and i found that the PI controls and Halo, due to which the ROM is popular are not of any important use to people like us. They only add a touch of appearance to the device [strictly my view and i mean no offence to any other person ].
3. Kernel - Archie kernel for Galaxy S3 - http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s3/development/kernel-archikernel-v1-0-power-hands-t2785337
4. MOD's -
A. Audio Engine - Ac!d Audio - http://http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s3/development/mod-acid-audio-engine-v5-0-samsung-t2002197
Viper4Android -http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2191223
6. Root Applications -
A. Titanium Backup:
You can backup, restore, freeze (with Pro) your apps + data + Market links. This includes all protected apps & system apps, plus external data on your SD card. You can do 0-click batch & scheduled backups. Backups will operate without closing any apps (with Pro). You can move any app (or app data) to/from the SD card. Available on Google Play
B. AdAway for Android [built-in app in BlissPop ROM]:
to block ads on your Android device this app is not avalibale on the playstore but you can still install it from this link
C. Greenify:
Is a good application to make your Android device more faster, by hibernating the background apps that you don't use. this application is completely free. Available on Google Play
These are the only Apps which i find useful in the long run as i have to use them constantly. Rest application's are used from time to time but not regularly. So this is My List, i'd be glad if anyone want's to add to it ^.^
I'd Like to Thanks the Amazing People who have Made the above Programs to make our Phone More performance and Appearance efficient. ------> CyanogenMod community, BlissPOP community, xda developers, Jeeko, JustArchie, amarullz, the Ac!d Audio Engine Team,zhuhang(Viper Mod), TWRP team.
Give a Thanks if u were helped by the post
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Intense Testing Period -> Over 8 months [tried the new Lollipop ROMS's , over 20 kernels, Latest Android M ROM's , some personal opinions
================================================================================================================
Firstly sorry, for the delayed updates, i have been a little busy trying to develop my own ROM (surprise! surprise!, not for S3 unfortunately thought as i can never come close to the current ROM wiz's ), now in the second edition , I have tried to utilize my knowledge over 8 months to put up a new more enhanced guide and have also put up common and uncommon bugs which I experienced along the way and have provider the working solutions for them. Also I am extremely sorry for all those broken links and not working Mods, i'll try to keep my list precise, sharp and accurate this time.
1. Alternate method to Root (super easy, risk free, takes at maximum 5 minutes) - {for windows running PC, stock ROM or any other custom ROM can be used}
So, I would still recommend using my method 1 in order to initially root your device, install a custom ROM and a Recovery as i know the fear and anxiety or every new user trying to root his phone for the first time.
Now for a little more experienced users (quickie guide) [for I9300 version] who do not want to spend a lifetime to just get their devices rooted -
(a) Download the Chainfire's AutoRoot file here and place this file on your PC.
(b) Download Odin (latest version) on your PC here and unzip the file and start odin.
(c) Power down the device, then reboot in Download Mode [ press Power button + Home Button + Volume Down Key] and press volume up key at the caution screen. (little Hint: mostly the device reboots itself when you do not press the 3 buttons at the same time, to counter this press the volume up button and the home button first and hold them and then press the power button until you see the Galaxy S3 logo)
(d) Now connect your device to your PC using a sturdy USB cable. After doing this 2 outcomes are possible:-
~1. Your device is identified by Odin and a faint blue colour is shown on one of the top tabs indicating the port through which your device is connected. In this case proceed to step (e).
~2. If your device is not recognized by odin ie no blue colour, then the drivers of your device might not be installed on your PC. To tackle this download the Driver Suite from Samsung here and run the program. If done correctly when you next connect your device the drivers should get installed and odin should recognize your device.
(e) Click the "AP" button on odin and select the "Chainfire's v-xxx .mad5.tar " file which you downloaded above, odin will then take some time to check the file and when it's ready press start. CAUTION - do not change Odin's settings and assure that Reset Runtime and Auto Reboot are selected, never select re-partition on the odin interface.
(f) After the installation is complete your device should reboot automatically and you should have SuperSU installed (indiacting 99.99% times that your device rooted successfully ).
(g) If you want you can then install a custom recovery using the method indicated in my "method 1" [above].
-feel free to message me for any doubts-
Here are some of my new recommendations based on personal experiences:-
2. ROM's - I will try to divide this section based on firstly Android System and then further based on Stability, Features, Performance. Further i will be adding 2 ROM's for Android M . [i will not be naming ROMS which have a touchWiz interface]
(A) Android Lollipop and Below
Stability - Official CyanogenMOD 11.x [kitkat 4.1.1] - Zero Doubt, this one is the most stable thing out there for S3, old, yes but well you can do anything you want with this ROM and it will not seriously bug out on you when you need it. If someone does not mind going for an older version of android and needs epic stability, just go for it.
Features - BlissPop v3.0.x [CM 12.1 base][ Lollipop 5.1.1] - This ROM is filled with features, you name it, this ROM has it, PI controls, Built-in apps including AdAway, Kernel Modifier, Greenify, SuperSU etc, seamlessly integrated into the build environment. Each and every feature of this ROM is customizable, every font, colour and animation. Simply put, for someone who needs features and customizations go for this one. On the other hand, this ROM is less stable (crashes quite often ) and provides a slightly laggy gaming experience. No bloatwares in this ROM.
Performance - ArchiDroid [CM12.1 base][Lollipop 5.1.1] - Performance, Performance and more performance, all the technical aspects of your device will be enhanced and although the customization features are minimal but this ROM turns your device into a Performance Beast. All the gamers and performance lovers, what are you waiting for
Android 6.x.y Marshmallow
1. RESSURRECTION REMIX M - Fast, Durable, Amazing performance. Fell in love with this one when i used it, and this is my current ROM, no bugs so far and have been using it for over 1 month. Immensely Customizable, no lag during gaming, an amazing upgrade from Lollipop.
2. NamelessROM 3.0 - Feature Loaded, Minimal, good Looks and customization features and of course the ever caring support team of Nameless makes this a go to ROM.
>>> A bit more studying will be required before i finally divide the Android M ROMS's based on their features, performance and stability. Will be posting the results as soon as i am finished.
3. Kernels - AGNi pureCM and Boeffla-Kernel (26-03-2016) , tied, tested and proved that they are the best on very benchmark or performance test, although battery usage is better balanced on AGNi whereas Boeffla is more inclined towards performance.
You can find the Links to all the above ROM's and Kernels and many more in this thread - here
PS - Please Post your bugs in the thread and i will do my best to try and solve them out with an easy and sure solution
Cheers!
Awesome rundown for a new user like me. I've just got an S3 after using a Nexus S for 3 years. The S3 feels like such a beast compared to it!
I want to root and put a custom ROM on my device this weekend. I currently use cm11 on my Nexus S but it's a bit slow (which is understandable considering the hardware) so I can't wait to try it on the S3. My priority is long term stability ( I don't like flashing the emperors new clothes every 5 minutes). I just want to flash a ROM and forget it.
Have you tried any slimroms on the S3?
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Free mobile app
[email protected][email protected] said:
A. First thing to do is install CyanogenMod on your specific devices. [without rooting] , The developers at cyanogen have made an application to directly install Cyanogen to your devices from your PC like a regular Software Install. The Link and the Instructions can be found on the official Website - http://get.cm. The process is very simple and easy to do and after the install your device gets automatic root access. The xda thread - http://http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/app-cm-app-installer-t2959922 - {you get CM - 11 from this download }
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi.
Can you just go over this again. Do I use my phone to download an installer from http://get.cm, install the apk then I will have root?
edit - damn I don't use WIndows, only Ubuntu. I can't use it.
Cheers.
Hi warren
Yes I have used slimrom too on the s3. Its good but as u are looking for stability I would suggest go for cyanogen because in my experience cyanogen shells out a better performance as compared to slimrom. My gaming experience was a little reduced in slimrom and I experienced a little lag but no such issue in cyanogen.
Secondly if you use ubunto I would suggest going for a virtual box to install windows and then the cyanogen application as it's the safest way to install a ROM.
U have to got to " get.cm " from both your phone and PC
On PC a windows installerbwoll be downloaded and on the phone an APK will be downloaded first install the apk the install the windows program and then continue as given in the installer setup.
Else mate, I wud say first download the stock ROM of s3 as a backup and the continue to root in the traditional way .
Any problem just ask me
Cheers
Hi.
I was thinking the same. CM11 all the way! I used Slimrom on my Nexus S but it was very very slow. I almost smashed my phone in frustration.
Nice tip about using a virtual machine to install cm. I will have a think about that. At the moment I have found a very good guide that involves using Heimdall on Ubuntu and Chainfire,so i will probably go for that method.
I am definitely going to try arter97 kernel. It looks immense. It has boeffla sound which I am looking forward to trying.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using XDA Free mobile app
A little Confused....???
[email protected][email protected] said:
Hi warren
Yes I have used slimrom too on the s3. Its good but as u are looking for stability I would suggest go for cyanogen because in my experience cyanogen shells out a better performance as compared to slimrom. My gaming experience was a little reduced in slimrom and I experienced a little lag but no such issue in cyanogen.
Secondly if you use ubunto I would suggest going for a virtual box to install windows and then the cyanogen application as it's the safest way to install a ROM.
U have to got to " get.cm " from both your phone and PC
On PC a windows installerbwoll be downloaded and on the phone an APK will be downloaded first install the apk the install the windows program and then continue as given in the installer setup.
Else mate, I wud say first download the stock ROM of s3 as a backup and the continue to root in the traditional way .
Any problem just ask me
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My understanding is that unless you rooted your S3 quite a while ago, pre 4.4.2, you can't add custom ROMs. The late-rooters would have a locked bootloader and would be severely limited on what mods are possible. Is my understanding incorrect? Thanks!
Oh my I hope this isn't the case.
Is this not just on Verizon or all s3's?
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Free mobile app
Sorry to confuse things. I believe the locked bootloaders only apply to those unlucky enough to have Verizon phones.
Yay not me then! NP.
P.S. Verizon suck!
Yes mate unfortunately Verizon version of S3 has a locked boot loader and it does not allow the user to install a new recovery. I would suggest using Odin to auto root your phone which in turn also unlocks the boot loader. I can make a step by step guide for Verizon version if anyone requires it. Personally I prefer the international version though. It has more optimized system functions.
Tell me if u want a Verizon guide
$$-
Thanks for your reply. Sure, if you have something that will allow me to unlock my Verizon Galaxy S3 bootloader, that would be great! Is that what your verizon instructions will allow me to do? I've never heard of any way of doing this, so that would be great if it works! Btw, I am running 4.4.2. Thanks again!
What about /EFS backup and locked boot loader?
I have been an old time user of android starting with sony xperia X3. I had a bad luck with that phone. When sony updated android from 1.6 to 2.2 , the phone went into a boot loop and finally got dead. I sold the battery and screen separately to make some cheap buck!!
After that experience, I have been reading a lot for rooting and there seems to be lot of info on that.
My phone model is Samsung S3 GT-I9300 international version. I am still on the stock Rom with 4.3 on it.
I tried with kingroot app and it bricked the phone and was able to recover with kies.
What I want to know is that, you have mentioned option A, do I need to make any backups (not the contacts and personal stuff which I am not worried when I start playing with the phone) of EFS partition?
Will I be able to restore to old stock ROM just by using ODIN and the firmware which is available from the market?
What I need to know is , will I need any specific data (IMEI or EFS) unique from my phone?
Hi [email protected][email protected]
I used Heimdall in Ubuntu and I managed to root and put SuperSU on my phone ! I also put TWRP recovery on as well and then did a backup of my stock ROM. I am now ready for some ROM flashing!
I am unsure whether to go for CM11 or something like Tamasek's CM12.1 ROM. Have you used Tamasek's ROM before? Thinking about it for the first flash I think I will use CM11 snapshot and arter97 kernel. Then I will nandroid backup and then I have a stable ROM/kernel combo to fall back on in the future.
Looking at arter97 kernel can you tell me about f2fs support and how I get it? Does it speed up certain parts of the memory? Is it worth flashing? Also, the kernel mentions touch wake. Is this available for the S3?
Cheers.
I can't believe it I bust my sim slot! I cut my old sim card with a tool cutter and it looked good but it was a little tight going into the slot and I pulled it out and that’s when I must of bent some pins. I'm gutted :crying::crying:
Thankfully a replacement is only £3 and swapping it over looks a doddle :fingers-crossed:
Looks like I will have to wait a week until I can have a proper play. I did download BlissPop ROM and I like it. Been playing around with that all day but Its still not a phone until I get my sim in it.
You live and learn
mathew_p_a said:
I have been an old time user of android starting with sony xperia X3. I had a bad luck with that phone. When sony updated android from 1.6 to 2.2 , the phone went into a boot loop and finally got dead. I sold the battery and screen separately to make some cheap buck!!
After that experience, I have been reading a lot for rooting and there seems to be lot of info on that.
My phone model is Samsung S3 GT-I9300 international version. I am still on the stock Rom with 4.3 on it.
I tried with kingroot app and it bricked the phone and was able to recover with kies.
What I want to know is that, you have mentioned option A, do I need to make any backups (not the contacts and personal stuff which I am not worried when I start playing with the phone) of EFS partition?
Will I be able to restore to old stock ROM just by using ODIN and the firmware which is available from the market?
What I need to know is , will I need any specific data (IMEI or EFS) unique from my phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Mate,
First of all, don't worry at all about the bricking thing, with the option A that i have mentioned, it's 99.99% success, i haven't found a single person yet for whom the method didn't work.
Secondly i would suggest u take the backup of your phone contacts in a vCard format using Kies first so that u don't loose them. And copy all your Personal things on your PC (pics, videos etc).
Thirdly you do not need to make a separate disk partition for the method to work, the CM installed will do it for you. Also if u have an International i9300 version u need not do a single thing yourself. Just start the setup and sit back and relax. Just follow my method to the letter and you can have a great custom ROM with root access in no time.
MOST Importantly - You can go to stock firmware of samsung but this time you will have to use odin instead of Kies to do that. You won't be able to use Kies once you have installed a custom ROM, but trust me that's a small price to pay for a very efficient ROM.
You do not need to know the IMEI or EFS number though i would suggest u still make a note of it somewhere in case ur phone is lost. Prevention is always better Message me if u have any queries. Cheers!
Warren_Orange said:
Hi [email protected][email protected]
I used Heimdall in Ubuntu and I managed to root and put SuperSU on my phone ! I also put TWRP recovery on as well and then did a backup of my stock ROM. I am now ready for some ROM flashing!
I am unsure whether to go for CM11 or something like Tamasek's CM12.1 ROM. Have you used Tamasek's ROM before? Thinking about it for the first flash I think I will use CM11 snapshot and arter97 kernel. Then I will nandroid backup and then I have a stable ROM/kernel combo to fall back on in the future.
Looking at arter97 kernel can you tell me about f2fs support and how I get it? Does it speed up certain parts of the memory? Is it worth flashing? Also, the kernel mentions touch wake. Is this available for the S3?
Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello Warren,
Good to hear that you are having fun with your new phone.
Firstly yes i have used Tamasek's/JustArchie's CM12.1 ROM and it's quite good to be honest. So first i'll talk about it then i'll come to the kernel.
So 12.1 yes, the most noticeable change android L 5.1, all good, nice appearance, but i would say just think again for a bit.
A comparison between the two is a mammoth task but i'll try to brief it for you and tell you why i like the CM11 better even though it has android KK. It's upto to you though what you choose to flash. i even have a nice tip for you in the end
So first let's see the CM12.1 -
Quite stable, i used it for like a month or so for testing and got a good result. The performance was at par with the rest of the ROM available for S3. The Graphics, Audio and Processing quality is also good and is suitable for light use. Here's the catch though, Firstly the Gaaps, many gaaps available Android L are not compatible with the unofficial 12.1 so u'll have to look around to find the correct set of Gaaps.
Secondly i personally find that the CM 11 has a much neat finish as compared to CM 12.1, i don't really care about the android version as for me if i can have all the features of android L in a more stable KitKat ROM i don't usually upgrade my ROM. THe reasons are very simple
Firstly it's Unofficial, No Nightlies, rare updates. Also the unofficial ROM is alive only till the Developer is still working on it. Once he stops his work it's a very slim chance that you can get your bugs fixed.
As for the Official one, there are thousands of forums on Solutions to various Bugs and Numerous customization options. We can't really know whether the unofficial 12.1 supports all the things available for the official ROM.
Based on Performance both the ROMS perform equally, there's a camera Bug in the 12.1 which can be a problem sometimes but rest is all good.
On a personal side [not really of importance] i like the Calculator of the CM 11 better than CM 12.1.
Now the Kernel - arter97 is simply amazing, The most noticeable changes are - 1800 GHz overclocking [yeah from 1400 to 1800 BOOM!],
the Knock feature - Tap the screen to unlock the phone, no need to use any buttons, Battery Tweaks etc.
Also it used a custom engine to allocate the Files to various partitions to the memory so yeah it saves space plus we can even Increase our RAM a bit by using the Internal Memory of the Phone.
I am a Hardcore Gamer and use my phone to the limit sometimes [ Playing Asphalt 8, Real Racing, GTA: San-Andreas, FIFA 15 and WWE Immortals can take it's toll on the phone.] these games require very high end phones but with this kernel they all run liquid smooth on my phone without even a slightest bit of lag. So yeah i would surely recommend arter97's Kernel. PLUS u get Boeffla Audio Engine which is an added BOnuS
Touch WIZ -- Not Necessary, I flashed it using TWRP and it worked Just fine.
f2f - f2f has better memory allotments and it's pre configured, we usually don't have to enable it, it's much better than extD though.
TIP - arter97 supports dual Booting so you can even enjoy cm12.1 and cm 11 at the same tine [Dual Booting i'll cover in the next post if you have a problem doing it ]
-----> Also U can use the Siyah Kernal, which work's just fine and even has an amazing Boot Image but now as much features as arter's.
straykat said:
$$-
Thanks for your reply. Sure, if you have something that will allow me to unlock my Verizon Galaxy S3 bootloader, that would be great! Is that what your verizon instructions will allow me to do? I've never heard of any way of doing this, so that would be great if it works! Btw, I am running 4.4.2. Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
well i have two methods for Verizon Phones, One i have tried myself the other one was tested by one of my friends,
For the First one -
Using Odin Use the Chainfire's Auto Root Application to give root access to your phone. https://autoroot.chainfire.eu/ This application in turn also unlocks the bootloader and hence you can easily install further ROM's. Check the Xda general Samsung forum to learn how to use Odin if u don't know , or just message me
Second - This Method requires Root Access on you r Phone. THere's an app on Google Play named "EZ Unlock" to unlock the bootloader , I think this app can help you out but i haven't tried it myself so i can't really comment. But looking at the reviews i would say that this app really works. ----> http://www.mediafire.com/download/qozzz1p43kxzs3z/EZ-Unlock14.apk
Here's a custom Recovery that can help too - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2797314
Cheers!
Hi..I did a search but i am completely confused and bewildered by the vast amount of different posts and opinions in threads..so i apologise if this has broken any rules.
Basically i have a stock s3 i9300 (uk) with original samsung jellybean 4.3 rom,I am getting a bit sick of it now (and the bloat) and i am looking to move on to something more appealing..I have already rooted and installed Rom Manager and CWM..i was wondering what the "Best Simplistic dark themed (small footprint) rom" to go for As i want minimal installed size to make the most of my 16gb memory,i dont mind which android version as long as the process is easy and the battery life is among the best available..And of course it is as stable as my current Samsung android rom..
i would really appreciate any valued veteran guidance..many thanks.
[email protected][email protected] said:
Hello,
well i have two methods for Verizon Phones, One i have tried myself the other one was tested by one of my friends,
For the First one -
Using Odin Use the Chainfire's Auto Root Application to give root access to your phone. https://autoroot.chainfire.eu/ This application in turn also unlocks the bootloader and hence you can easily install further ROM's. Check the Xda general Samsung forum to learn how to use Odin if u don't know , or just message me
Second - This Method requires Root Access on you r Phone. THere's an app on Google Play named "EZ Unlock" to unlock the bootloader , I think this app can help you out but i haven't tried it myself so i can't really comment. But looking at the reviews i would say that this app really works. ----> http://www.mediafire.com/download/qozzz1p43kxzs3z/EZ-Unlock14.apk
Here's a custom Recovery that can help too - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2797314
Cheers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
[email protected]
Thanks for the info! I looked on a Chainfire thread here on xda to see if others have done what I would be attempting to do with my Verizon S3, but I don't see anyone else saying they've used this method to unlock their bootloader & install roms. By chance, do you know any place on this forum or any others that talk about peoples' successes using this method on a Verizon S3? I'm a little nervous about attempting this method without knowing that lots of other people have done so successfully.... Thanks for your help & your understanding of my feelings on this.
Broken Link
Your "Mods" links are broken.
Hi,
It will probably take some time until I'll get my phone, but I am trying to understand how to start.
I am OK with having only English on my phone, but I would prefer to have a clean and bloat free rom that has the GAPPS and that can get OTA updates.
I want to do the minimum needed to get this, I really don't want to change roms every other week.
How should I start? I am a bit lost.
Is the Chinese rom that bad?
Should I change the rom and root it?
Thanks in advance,
Asaf
I think this should be in the Q&A forum
It sounds like you want a stable ROM with Gapps. Xiaomi offer several ROM types. If you want Gapps included from the start, you want their stable international ROM. The trouble is that at the moment they don't do one for the XRN2 yet. Head over to en.miui.com, pick a phone that has been around for longer and in the download section for that device you will see the different ROM types (there are tabs at the top of each phone section). There are also a couple of great explanatory pages in their forum that guide you through the different ROM types.
Use the xiaomi.eu ROM. Multilanguage, clean and with Gapps. OTA also included
Sent from my Redmi Note 2 using Tapatalk
First, get TWRP installed in your phone.
Then flash a stable rom
At the end, install proper gapp using TWRP.
Thanks.
So
1. Install TWRP, will this link should be enough to install it? http://en.miui.com/thread-156838-1-1.html
2. Go to http://xiaomi.eu --> ROMs DOWNLOAD and take the DOWNLOAD WEEKLY rom (http://miuif.celogeek.com/5.9.10/xiaomi.eu_multi_hermes_5.9.11_v7-5.0.zip)?
shemsha said:
Thanks.
So
1. Install TWRP, will this link should be enough to install it? http://en.miui.com/thread-156838-1-1.html
2. Go to http://xiaomi.eu --> ROMs DOWNLOAD and take the DOWNLOAD WEEKLY rom (http://miuif.celogeek.com/5.9.10/xiaomi.eu_multi_hermes_5.9.11_v7-5.0.zip)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BUT, you said you don't want to have to flash a new ROM every week. The xiaomi.EU weekly ROMs are a beta ROM, they are not the same as the 'stable' ROM. I'm using the weekly version just fine, but there are a few bugs. This ROM may or may not suit your needs. Please be aware of that As soon as Xiaomi release the official stable International ROM with Gapps, that's the one you want (based on your stated requirements).
Thanks
So perhaps I'll wait, hopefully it will come up soon enough.
Hope the Chinese rom isn't too bad...
shemsha said:
Thanks
So perhaps I'll wait, hopefully it will come up soon enough.
Hope the Chinese rom isn't too bad...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The first ROM I flashed was the stable ROM from MIUI.com. At the moment this is available as Chinese only (with only Chinese and English languages on board). It is also MIUI version 6 not 7. You do not need TWRP installed to flash this. You can just download it straight to internal storage, then use the Xiaomi updater app (which is already on the phone) to manually flash it. This ROM is not rooted.
Next I tried the weekly ROM from MIUI.com. At that point I incorrectly thought that it would be multi language, but it wasn't. It did at least have MIUI 7 on board though. TWRP is also not needed to flash this. This ROM is rooted. Root settings can be accessed via the Security app. You can also install SuperSU, grant it root access, then use it to control the root access of other apps if you wish. There are no Google apps on board. I was on n holiday at the time so I manually placed all the relevant files, set permissions and so on using ES File explorer that I side loaded and granted root privileges to. Yes, my girlfriend thought it was very romantic of me to spend a whole evening split between doing this and hunting some particularly aggressive mosquitoes trapped in our room. Only the best for my love.
Finally I downloaded the latest weekly (not stable) ROM from from Xiaomi.EU. As well as being a beta, it is not an official Xiaomi ROM. They do also have a stable ROM in offer, but it is not rooted. Basic Google apps are installed. TWRP is not needed here either. However, I installed it briefly to make a full backup of my phone, and a separate backup of the NVRAM portion of the device where the IMEI resides. Experience tells me this is important on an MTK phone in case the area becomes corrupt during an incorrect flash. You can also use SPFlash Tools to do this from a computer. Google the process, it's well worth being prepared. Damian Parsons over on GizBeat and China Phone Arena has done some useful tutorials with videos. Make sure you have the right version of SPFlash tools (which is not the same as MTKdroidtools -or something like that). I have only used a couple of times with my first two MTK phones so I don't know what version you need to use with this chipset.
For my purposes NONE of these ROMs actually fit the bill. Why? Because none of them so far allow me to select UK English as the default language or select the UK as the region I'm in. It's a small thing, but the last three Chinese phones I've had all suffered from the same problem. I end up rooting and using More Locales app to create a new default language code over and above selecting UK English in Google keyboard.
Once Xiaomi release an official global ROM the download page for the Note 2 will look like in the attached screenshot which shows the Mi4 page. Note the two tabs at the top, global and Chinese, in addition to the 'stable' and 'developer' sections down the left hand side.
Please somebody correct me if I'm wrong because I'm new to Xiaomi devices
Thanks for the detailed response.
Sounds like that for my purposes, and until an official rom is out, the easiest option is either the latest weekly or stable from xiaomi.eu.
I understand they can be installed using xiaomi updater as well?
Yes, you can install them the same way as official ROMs.
shemsha said:
Thanks for the detailed response.
Sounds like that for my purposes, and until an official rom is out, the easiest option is either the latest weekly or stable from xiaomi.eu.
I understand they can be installed using xiaomi updater as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also, when I received my phone there was a lot of non-MIUI related bloatware and possibly malware on board. It was multi language (with UK English as a built in option) but it all felt wrong, slow and dodgy. Reading elsewhere it was recommended the best thing to do was flash a ROM from a PC using the fastboot method to erase everything, then start from there. There are fastboot ROMs with instructions on the en.miui.com site. If you think you need to, you could flash via fastboot, then download your subsequent choice of ROM from xiaomi.EU and flash that however you please. As I was away (and impatient) I didn't do the first flash via fastboot. I just did a full wipe from the stock recovery, then put a ROM into internal memory, then flashed it from the stock recovery, then factory reset again. No idea if that was sufficient, but there's no sign of the extra apps any more.
You don't need TWRP
Sent from my Redmi Note 2 using Tapatalk
Ouzo said:
I installed it briefly to make a full backup of my phone, and a separate backup of the NVRAM portion of the device where the IMEI resides. Experience tells me this is important on an MTK phone in case the area becomes corrupt during an incorrect flash. You can also use SPFlash Tools to do this from a computer. Google the process, it's well worth being prepared. Damian Parsons over on GizBeat and China Phone Arena has done some useful tutorials with videos. Make sure you have the right version of SPFlash tools (which is not the same as MTKdroidtools -or something like that). I have only used a couple of times with my first two MTK phones so I don't know what version you need to use with this chipset.
For my purposes NONE of these ROMs actually fit the bill. Why? Because none of them so far allow me to select UK English as the default language or select the UK as the region I'm in. It's a small thing, but the last three Chinese phones I've had all suffered from the same problem. I end up rooting and using More Locales app to create a new default language code over and above selecting UK English in Google keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info, this is great for me. I will follow what you said regarding backing up this NVRAM you speak of, as I just read that the source code for the Helios X10 has been released, so we can expect more people including members of the HTC M9+ forum playing around with code.
It would be nice to have an option for UK English (or Australian English for me, to be precise) however I haven't noticed much of a difference, maybe because I have Swiftkey installed and that already has the correct language setting.
zan5hin said:
Thanks for the info, this is great for me. I will follow what you said regarding backing up this NVRAM you speak of, as I just read that the source code for the Helios X10 has been released, so we can expect more people including members of the HTC M9+ forum playing around with code.
It would be nice to have an option for UK English (or Australian English for me, to be precise) however I haven't noticed much of a difference, maybe because I have Swiftkey installed and that already has the correct language setting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Changing the language to UK English is only part of the problem for me. Basically the phone thinks I'm in the U.S, or rather, that I have a U.S phone in the UK. This can cause problems within apps that want tailor content to my region code (or even deny me content). I've tried editing the build.prop a little, but it doesn't seem to help.
Mobile Uncle tools (free in Play Store) used to be able to back up one's IMEI number, but it didn't work on this phone. Dunno if that's because it runs lollipop. Anyway, that's why TWRP was handy and I will try using SPFlashTools again at some point.
If this post or just part of it was usefull to you, please give a thank you, it's just one click below this post and encourages authors to keep their threads up to date.
What is this thread for?
To all those wondering what to install on their old Samsung Galaxy S6, abreviated "S6". This thread will tell you what you need to know concerning available ROMS for the Canadian W8 model of the S6.
There are 5 major guests in the Samsung Galaxy S6 Android world:
Versions 5.x.x named Lollipop abreviated "LL"
Versions 6.x.x named Marshmallow abreviated "MM"
Versions 7.x.x named Nougat abreviated "NG"
Versions 8.x.x named Oreo abreviated "O"
Versions 9.x.x named Pie abreviated "P"
Versions 10.x.x named 10 abreviated 10
Basic things you must know:
Stock ROMs which are kept as is with only deknoxed but still stock won't show you much besides keeping your phone as it is with the freedom of installing what you want.
AOSP ROMs are usually the most debloated ones and best ones. LineageOS IS an AOSP based ROM.
Debloated ROMs: There seems to be a lot of different levels of debloating. High, Partial, Light. When using a Custom ROM, you usually want to remove most of the stock stuff and install the things you desire after. But in this ROM world, when debloating, authors often rebloat them with some of their prefered apps and mods. So Debloated ROMs are mainly to say that stock apps were removed.
Kernels are not ROMs, just saying AND, they need to be installed with the PROPER version of the ROM you are installing AND must fit AOSP or Stock because they will not work and you will get bootloop.
Aroma installer which permit to choose options during the ROM's installation. These take soo much space and are huge files to download. They boost the ROM's file size. Of course, you can choose what you want during the install process, but most ROMs are over 1Gb in size which is enormous while a non-aroma file can be way under 700Mb and do the job perfectly.
LL (v5.x.x):
These are just old, your cell phone can handle much more up to date roms AND stock roms are already way passed these versions.
MM (v6.x.x):
If you need well working, functional and complete ROMs, there's a few of these which have been tested and work very well. I'd go back without hesitating if I were not too greedy on later versions,
NG (v7.x.x):
There has been a lot of apps and mods that have been made stable from NG ROMs. A system on this would be considered a good in-the-middle installation. Not too old but not too young. There is also a custom framework app out there permitting some nice handling and modding that is considered stable for this version of Android. BUT, there's a bit BUT here. There is v7.0 and 7.1.x. 7.1.x seem to have audio issues, at least, the AOSP ROMs I tested.
0 (v8.x.x):
OK! I have read sooo many articles concerning battey problems in this ROM and I have also lived the battery problem myself with a custom ROM in this version. Oreo would be the system which crosses the line between old and new, merging from MM and NG to PIE.
P (v9.x.x):
Well, you are now up to date. BUT, We are now going well over S10 models of the Samsung Galaxy nowdays so a ROM in this version working bugfree is a bit of a dream, at least, for now. Problem encountered from these ROMs are audio, camera and wifi. Camera app is just nonesense with very poor audio quality. Users talk about bluetooth audio problems and echos during calls. Frequent application crashes notably when using camera, for example in messenger. BUT, the good is a cleaned up interface with a nice fresh modern feel.
10 (10.x.x):
Please refer to Pie (v9.x.x). Pretty much the same things happen.
I decided to give you a list of ROMS I have tested and believe should still stay alive for those questionning what the best ROM is for your needs or dreams.
Links to my suggested custom ROMs:
LL (5.x.x):
• None (just don't install any of these, too old)
MM (6.x.x): Only one stands out which I used for years and has a very nice position in recommended mods.
• XtreStoLite 3.3.1: https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...xtrestolite-deodexed-mod-edition-1-0-t3094423
XtreStoLite has made me happy for years. If you want a stable ROM with what the S6 looked like during it's glorious days, that's the ROM to install.
NG (7.x.x): Most of these ROMs seem to be stock ROMs with not so much debloation so huge file sizes and Samsung's connection wizard AND all the Google Apps you did not ask for. I fell on 1 which boasts being HIGHLY debloated.
• OdexLite 4.2: https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...rom-odexlite-rom-920f-920i-925f-925i-t3550706
If you do not install any of the Samsung or Google apps in the aroma installer, this is a highly debloated rom. I'm mentionning it here because I managed to instal it once but not a second time. Some users have reported a boot loop which makes the ROM below pretty much safe for install compared to this one. Because of a first successfull try, I still list it here, but I suggest Ultimate Nougat below. If you want to try and have time, then I suggest to try OdexLite if you are willing to test out and see for yourself.
• UlTiMaTe NouGat V3.1:https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...elopment/rom-ultimate-nougat-s8-port-t3681259
I managed to make it work after wating for about 15 minutes for my phone to boot initially. It is not as much debloated as OdexLite but is a bit more flexible for adblock and Magisk since you are offered to install or not in the Aroma Installer. This actually is a flaw I found in OdexLite where some applications detect Magisk and AdBlock so they make certain options unavailable. With this version, you can install AdBlock and Magisk after and get apps to work flawlessly. System is stable and a good solution if you want, what I consider, a semi-debloated acceptable ROM. Many users also mentioned that mobile and LTE networks work flawlessly with this ROM.
O (8.x.x): None (I just di not try any of them after my battery problem)
P (9.x.x): 2 Came out of the lot and work strait out of the box. OK, WORK is a big word here, be prepared for a few issues. BUT, battery life is good, not too many apps and some fun customized options.
• LineageOS 16.0: https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...opment/rom-unofficial-lineageos-16-0-t3880888
Used it for a few months without major issues besides the common Pie ROM issues notably camera and audio issues and some WiFi problems.
• ViperOS 6.3: https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...elopment/rom-unofficial-viperos-v6-3-t3921301
I was pretty surprised by this ROM. It's basically Lineage OS 16 with extra Viper mods for extra customizations and configuration with, as a user stated, the extra no audio during calls problem. I still consider the Viper addons as bloatware but at least, there's no Samsung apps.
10 (10.x.x): I stopped at Pie. Same issues when reading the ROM threads so I have not even tried any of them because I overuse camera and video calls, who doesn't during COVID-19?
Recommended and usefull apps:
AdAway: https://f-droid.org/packages/org.adaway/
Removes many inapp ads, not those in full screen, but removes lotsand most of them.
Magisk: https://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/magisk/official-magisk-v7-universal-systemless-t3473445
Adds root access to your apps if you don't have it pre-enabled in your ROM
OpenGApps: https://opengapps.org/
Installs Google Play and other Google stuff on your phone
Xposed Framework: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=58828974#post58828974
Adds numourous other possibilities to customize your phone. NOTE: Please allow an extra boot time after installation.
Xposed Modules: https://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/modules
Launchers and other apps:
Launchers will give more style to your phone. From changing icon size to drawer's background color, you may want to have a look at launchers for a more customized experience. 2 Launchers held my attention. There's not too many out there that are worth the download even with an above 4/5 star rating. Some of them even show ads which is ridiculous for a launcher as you will see ads popup just in the middle of nowhere.
Microsoft Launcher: My prefered launcher. Has everything you need, notifiction dots, decent customizations and works with icon packs. It lacks a few customizations such as folder colors and opacity, but that left asside, I still think it is the best out of all of them considering that it is totally FREE.
Nova Launcher: The only problem with THIS launcher is that you need the paid version to enable notification badges on your icons.
Evie Launcher: Well it's one or the other, Nova permits lots of customizations with background colors but no badges. Evie permits badges but no background colors or status bar customizations. But, very fast and simple.
MX Player: I've tested a few, one of the best. Reads almost anything, fast and highly customizable. Some may say VLC would be nice but VLC showed a few lags here and there and ended up not reading some files MX read OR had more time with videos accros the network, MX Player does a very nice job.
Options you may want to change:
Enable programmer's options and disable all animations for a faster response time in apps.
Enable USB Debugging and set USB mode to File Transfer or Media Transfer Protocol.
Final Notes: I love the Pie experience but I had to resigne and go back to Nougat for stability and the camera which I use very often. It took me a while to find a reasonable Nougat ROM because I was going to resigne and go back to XtreStoLite. If you plan on testing, Facebook and Google accounts are your best friends to save your stuff so you don't need to restart your games or retype your contacts.
The chosen one: ULTIMATE NOUGAT
I hope this will help people make a choice on what to install for Canadian W8 phones. Do not hesitate to post your comments on your experiences and if you have suggestions or more information on tests you did with other ROMs not mentionned here.
Additional Bloatware you may not need
Now this is for modders who may come upon some bloatwares installed. When installing Ultimate Nougat, I decided to uninstall apps I do not use and found combersome and irritating for me. Here is the list of package names that can be removed which include App Lock, Weather and other widgets. If you are not sure of what you are doing, please do a Google Search on the package names to make sure you are uninstalling something you really do not need. In my case, I chose to uninstall these packages. You may want to get a package name virwer to know where these have been installed to remove them.
I use Total Commander with root permissions and I delete them. When I delete these packages, the phone boots properly and I get no messages or service stopping errors so I consider this my safe to remove list.
List of packages that I removed in the "system" folder (you need root permissions or use TWRP to delete):
Spoiler: KNOX
app/KNOXStub
app/KNOXStore
app/KnoxAttestationAgent
app/KNOXAgent
app/KLMSAgent
app/ContainerAgent
app/ContainerEventsRelayManager
app/KnoxFolderContainer2
app/KnoxRemoteContentsProvider
app/KnoxAppsUpdateAgent
app/KnoxFolderContainer
app/KnoxSetupWizardClient
app/KnoxSwitcher
app/MyKNOXSetupWizard
app/KnoxMigrationAgent
app/KnoxSetupWizardStub
app/SamsungDLPService
app/BBCAgent
app/SecurityLogAgent
priv-app/MyKNOXSetupWizard
priv-app/KLMSAgent
priv-app/SPDClient
priv-app/SKMSAgent
container
tima_measurement_info
framework/knoxsdk.jar
framework/knoxvpnuidtag.jar
etc/secure_storage/com.sec.knox.store
etc/secure_storage/com.sec.knox.store!dex
Spoiler: AUDIO
media\audio\ringtones\A_Rustling_in_the_Trees.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Basic_Bell.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Basic_Tone.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Beep_Once.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Beginning.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Bunny_Hopping.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Chimes.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Crossing_a_River.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Dance_Party.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Day_by_Day.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Drifting_Downstream.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Ecliptic.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\First_Light.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Fresh_Morning.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Mystic_Tone.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Ocean_Voyage.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\One_Step_Forward.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Prelude.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Scampering_Tone.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Somewhere.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Ticktac.ogg
media\audio\ringtones\Warm_Greetings.ogg
media\audio\notifications\Beep_Once.ogg
media\audio\notifications\Good_Time.ogg
media\audio\notifications\Run.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Harmonics.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Opener.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Temple_Bell.ogg
media\audio\notifications\Sweet_Favour.ogg
media\audio\notifications\Whisper.ogg
media\audio\notifications\Hello.ogg
media\audio\notifications\Peanut.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Bubbles.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Charming_Bell.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Dew_drops.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Knock.ogg
media\audio\notifications\S_Tickety_Tock.ogg
Spoiler: SAMSUNG
app/SamsungSans
app/VirtualTour_N_OS
app/VideoTrimmer_Dream
app/VideoEditorLite_Dream_N
app/VideoCollage_Grace_N
app/SlowMotion_Dream_N
app/EasterEgg
app/EasyOneHand3
app/GameOptimizer
app/WallpaperBackup
app/Weather2017_SE
app/WeatherWidget2017_SE
app/SmartRemote_zero
app/SmartSwitchAgent
app/SecFactoryPhoneTest
app/SecurityProviderSEC
app/STalkback
app/OneNote_Compact_Samsung
app/GearManagerStub
app/SecMemo3
app/AllshareFileShare
app/AllshareMediaShare
app/SBrowser_5.0
app/SPrintSpooler7
app/CloudGateway2017
priv-app/DiagMonAgent
priv-app/GalaxyAppsWidget_Phone
priv-app/SamsungPayStub
priv-app/SamsungBilling
priv-app/GalaxyApps_3xh
priv-app/GalaxyCare
priv-app/GalaxyThemes
priv-app/PowerPoint_SamsungStub
priv-app/SamsungAccount_Dream
priv-app/SamsungCloud
priv-app/HealthService
priv-app/LegacySmartManagerProvider
priv-app/SamsungPass_1.1
priv-app/VoiceNote_5.0
priv-app/Word_SamsungStub
priv-app/ThemeCenter
priv-app/SecLiveWallpapersPicker
priv-app/SHealth5
priv-app/SmartManager_v5
priv-app/SmartManager_v5_DeviceSecurity
priv-app/EasyLauncher2_Zero
priv-app/SVoicePLM
priv-app/SVoiceLang_EnglishPack_US_1.0
priv-app/SVoiceLang_FrenchPack_1.0
priv-app/SamsungMagnifier3
priv-app/SecEmail_N
priv-app/SecureFolderStub
priv-app/EasySetup
priv-app/GameHome
priv-app/GameTools
priv-app/OneDrive_Samsung_v2
etc/sysconfig/samsungaccount.xml
etc/sysconfig/samsungauthframework.xml
etc/sysconfig/samsungemail.xml
etc/sysconfig/samsungfidouafasm.xml
etc/sysconfig/samsungfidouafclient.xml
etc/sysconfig/samsungpushservice.xml
framework/gamemanager.jar
I just picked up a used SM-G920W8 as a backup until I get my Pixel 2 XL back. I plan to keep it as a backup phone but also as a music player for around the house, on trips and at the gym. The battery life is pretty poor!
I was hoping to put a custom ROM and was wondering if you'd be able to give me some guidance. So many posts on this forum are from 3 years ago and I'm not sure what is valid anymore. After seeing your post, and thank you, I would suspect you have a good deal of experience with this Canadian version of the S6.
My questions are:
What is the process to get TWRP on my device?
Can any of the other ROMs you tried but didn't run be made to work if we flash a custom kernel after flashing the ROM?
In your OP the problems you say you have, are those with your current Unofficial Lineage ROM? I'd hate to have the camera issues.
Thanks in advance.
Installing TWRP with ODIN
blyndfyre said:
I just picked up a used SM-G920W8 as a backup until I get my Pixel 2 XL back. I plan to keep it as a backup phone but also as a music player for around the house, on trips and at the gym. The battery life is pretty poor!
I was hoping to put a custom ROM and was wondering if you'd be able to give me some guidance. So many posts on this forum are from 3 years ago and I'm not sure what is valid anymore. After seeing your post, and thank you, I would suspect you have a good deal of experience with this Canadian version of the S6.
My questions are:
What is the process to get TWRP on my device?
Can any of the other ROMs you tried but didn't run be made to work if we flash a custom kernel after flashing the ROM?
In your OP the problems you say you have, are those with your current Unofficial Lineage ROM? I'd hate to have the camera issues.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A simple Google search makes it easy to find but, having a thread like this one , I believe that your questions are relevant. So...
Question #1 (getting TWRP on your phone): 2 links to start with ODIN to make the flash and TWRP, the thing you need to install:
ODIN (remove spaces in the following link): ww w.droid views.com/download-odin-tool-for-samsung-galaxy-devices-all-versions/
TWRP: https://twrp.me/samsung/samsunggalaxys6.html
Follow the instructions on the ODIN website. ODIN is used to flash your phone to have TWRP installed. Also note that this process is pretty critical as it can brick your phone so be carefull and follow the instruction properly. I have flashed TWRP a few times without any problems on my side.
Question #2 (Installing a custom kernel):
I have not tried this and did not adventure myself into installing any such thing. I tend to stick with original stuff to make sure to not brick my phone. AND seeing that many custom ROMS for Pie are not out yet and also seeing the battery problem with OREO, this simply means that noone has ever found anything stable yet for this device. I don't believe that installing another kernel may make things work better. But this is just an opinion and since I did not try any custom kernel, I don't believe to have the best answer for you concerning this.
Question #3 (Camera issues with custom ROM):
Samsung Galaxy S6 is made to work with Marshmallow abreviated as MM in certain threads and posts. So anything after MM is a risk, stable or not. I had XtreStoLite for many years and I had absolutely no problems until some apps just said that MM was not supported anymore. That's pretty much the only reason I decided to install something new. I also noticed that Nougat is still very popular but have not found any Nougat ROMS that were not too heavy or simply unavailable for my Canadian phone. But, if you install any MM ROMS, your are mostly not going to have any problems. You could try OREO roms and fall in luck and find someone that figured out how to elliminate the battery issue but in my case, I tend to stick myself to the latest ROMS and live temporarly with my problems until an update fixes it as I don't have too much stuff on my phone that makes me take the reinstallation as a waste of time. I can install over 15 custom ROMS in one day while only 3 or 4 Windows during the same period, I believe that trial and error in this case is worth it. There are few stable builds that correspond to my criterias which are very few custom apps and lightweight that are less than 650 mb ROMS. Most roms go over 2 Gb while som maintain between 1.2 to 1.7 gb which I find pretty huge to my opinion seeing I can get a fully working rom for 550 mb.
I hope this helps a bit. I'm not one of those geeky people with all the technological knowledge to explain or understand the nuances of kernels and roms. I'm not a developper nor a ROM creator myself so just following the installation processes proposed makes me a simple user. I applaud those creating custom kernels and roms from scratch with nothing but their knowledge without any installation instructions until they figure out by themselves how to explain their procedures, these people are the real fun guys or girls that make us use our phone to their outmost potential without any controls giving us the freedom to use the full unlimited functionalities of our android phones.
Just so you are aware the Canadian s6 is the same as the T-Mobile version, so any separate Rom download or fixes for the T-Mobile s6 apply. Any Oreo or Pie rom will have custom kernel prepackaged, as Samsung never released those on this device.
@Rouwdyboy Well that's a very constructive comment. Thank you, this may open up some possibilities and other tests on my side once I get some time again. Thank you for your comment!
@green3water5 how did you get a Canadian S6 to work? Wow!
Other than my S6 being edge, my SM-G925W8 installs LineageOS 16.1 fine but there is no cellular data at all. Calls go through but there's no sound...
I have a suspicion that the installer installs the zeroltexx version of the ROM which is causing the issue.
I guess the only thing that can differ from my installation to yours is Twrp, so which version of Twrp do you use?
Thanks (in advance)
Jeffreyyou said:
@green3water5 how did you get a Canadian S6 to work? Wow!
Other than my S6 being edge, my SM-G925W8 installs LineageOS 16.1 fine but there is no cellular data at all. Calls go through but there's no sound...
I have a suspicion that the installer installs the zeroltexx version of the ROM which is causing the issue.
I guess the only thing that can differ from my installation to yours is Twrp, so which version of Twrp do you use?
Thanks (in advance)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to admit that I do not use my cell phone using cellular data. I constantly need wifi to use GS Wave for VoIP calls. I have not tested cellular data but I do know that MOST Pie ROMS have sound issues and some Nougat ROMS also. The sound issue is pretty redundant but in my case, using GS Wave, I do not encounter those bugs. The only problem I encounter, I have already mentionned above, BUT, I have updated my first post to warn people of possible sound problems when using cellular data. I'm sorry that I'm not of big use for your problem but thank you for your reply!
I have updated my tests and added my point of view on ViperOS.
Calls
I have no sound in phone calls, everything else is working fine.
i tried to see if there was something like "persist.vendor.audio.fluence.voicecall=true" in the build prop to edit, hoping to fix the issue.
After testing out and other numourouse trials and errors. Here's my new comments on ROMs for G920W8 models. Hope this helps. I rewrote the entire thread content for clearer explanations.
Jeffreyyou said:
@green3water5 how did you get a Canadian S6 to work? Wow!
Other than my S6 being edge, my SM-G925W8 installs LineageOS 16.1 fine but there is no cellular data at all. Calls go through but there's no sound...
I have a suspicion that the installer installs the zeroltexx version of the ROM which is causing the issue.
I guess the only thing that can differ from my installation to yours is Twrp, so which version of Twrp do you use?
Thanks (in advance)
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I have the exact same problem as you do. I tried many roms and so far, none kept the data ON execpt Resurrection Remix 7 (zerofltecan) for about... 3 hours.
But, when I go back to stock, mobile data comes back.
@green3water5 I sent you a private message AND THEN found that thread. Sorry to have bothered you, will keep writing in here
coolmat said:
I have the exact same problem as you do. I tried many roms and so far, none kept the data ON execpt Resurrection Remix 7 (zerofltecan) for about... 3 hours.
But, when I go back to stock, mobile data comes back.
@green3water5 I sent you a private message AND THEN found that thread. Sorry to have bothered you, will keep writing in here
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Click to collapse
That's why I chose to use OdexLite which is a Nougat based ROM. Oreo and Pie seem to be too recent to have perfect functionalities seeing that S6 is way outdated today. So seeing Pie ROMS work seems, for now at least, a bit more dreamy than reality. Nougat has passed pretty much all possible tests and seeing most of them being abandonned by their authors, I think that most problems may have been resolved and that other issues which may raise are probably corrected with Oreo and Pie ROMs. But again, I do not use cellular lines as I use voip through wifi connections so I cannot suggest anything more than my experience as a computer technician concerning roms and softwares installed on old systems. We are now at the S10 phone, 4 versions higher with Pie starting to be the default system sold on recent phones.
My experience so far with OdexLite without cellular data: I have nothing but good to say. I've had no camera issues, no sound issues, no wifi issues and no problems installing anything I wanted. Up to now, it's the best and most stable ROM I've installed after XtreStoLite. Of course there are small things that I liked in Pie like theme changes and some keyboard changes but nothing compared to how fluid and stable the system is compared to Oreo and Pie ROMs I had tested.
And I am not bothered by any messages. Thank you for your usefull comment.
green3water5 said:
That's why I chose to use OdexLite which is a Nougat based ROM. Oreo and Pie seem to be too recent to have perfect functionalities seeing that S6 is way outdated today. So seeing Pie ROMS work seems, for now at least, a bit more dreamy than reality. Nougat has passed pretty much all possible tests and seeing most of them being abandonned by their authors, I think that most problems may have been resolved and that other issues which may raise are probably corrected with Oreo and Pie ROMs. But again, I do not use cellular lines as I use voip through wifi connections so I cannot suggest anything more than my experience as a computer technician concerning roms and softwares installed on old systems. We are now at the S10 phone, 4 versions higher with Pie starting to be the default system sold on recent phones.
My experience so far with OdexLite without cellular data: I have nothing but good to say. I've had no camera issues, no sound issues, no wifi issues and no problems installing anything I wanted. Up to now, it's the best and most stable ROM I've installed after XtreStoLite. Of course there are small things that I liked in Pie like theme changes and some keyboard changes but nothing compared to how fluid and stable the system is compared to Oreo and Pie ROMs I had tested.
And I am not bothered by any messages. Thank you for your usefull comment.
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Click to collapse
I was not able to install OdexLite, it always bootloop, but I was able to install Ultimate Nougat and I can confirm that it's the first ROM that mobile data works. So what I deduct is that Canadian providers locked mobile data (LTE) to Android 7 (Nougat) for SM-G920W8. I can't remember where I read that before, but it's not the first time I see that people had to update in order to get mobile data for it to work.
Sadness...
@coolmat Thank you for this very usefull comment. Even though I do not really understand why you get a bootloop with OdexLite, you still managed to get a Nougat ROM to work. If this resolved your issue for LTE network, I glad that Ultimate Nougat worked for you. And I think we just need to be patient and wait until there is more serious work for Pie ROMs until someone finds out how to resolve the network and other issues we have.
Added Ultimate Nougat in the list of Tested Nougat ROMs. Thanks to @coolmat for this little info. Tried the installation another time and rom worked.
**EDIT: I'm editing this because some people might not scroll more... Don't install this ROM. As green3water5 stated (below) it is in beta and after further testing, there's a big issue where rebooting kills it.
Guys, I just found the BEST ROM for the SM-G925W8! It's Android PIE and mobile data WORKS REALLY WELL!!!. (When you install, install the "US Variant")
This ROM is faster than all the other PIE, OREO, NOUGAT, and STOCK! It's faster than my S8 lol.
**MiUi camera, don't use stock
The ROM is also for the Note 5 and other S6 variants, hence 2GB size.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/note5/development/rom-floyd-n7fe-port-v1-0-t3882804
JeffYou said:
Guys, I just found the BEST ROM for the SM-G925W8! It's Android PIE and mobile data WORKS REALLY WELL!!!. (When you install, install the "US Variant")
This ROM is faster than all the other PIE, OREO, NOUGAT, and STOCK! It's faster than my S8 lol. This ROM gets an A+ (or as we Ontarians say "level 4+")
**MiUi camera, don't use stock
The ROM is also for the Note 5 and other S6 variants, hence 2GB size.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/note5/development/rom-floyd-n7fe-port-v1-0-t3882804
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Click to collapse
It states that the ROM is under Beta. Did you compare the sound recording of tha camera compared to the other ROMS I listed. Does the camera work flawlessly with Facebook Messenger and other apps asking for camera?
green3water5 said:
It states that the ROM is under Beta. Did you compare the sound recording of tha camera compared to the other ROMS I listed. Does the camera work flawlessly with Facebook Messenger and other apps asking for camera?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, my bad. Don't install the ROM. I used it all night and it worked great but if you boot it the second time, it will shutdown/reboot right after booting into the OS ( kind-of like a bootloop(?) ).
Did not work on SM-G920W8...
coolmat said:
I was not able to install OdexLite, it always bootloop, but I was able to install Ultimate Nougat and I can confirm that it's the first ROM that mobile data works. So what I deduct is that Canadian providers locked mobile data (LTE) to Android 7 (Nougat) for SM-G920W8. I can't remember where I read that before, but it's not the first time I see that people had to update in order to get mobile data for it to work.
Sadness...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here...
Hi!
After a long time hacking my phone by setting up different kind of custom roms and kernels, I'd like to start from a fresh base before going to a custom Q rom
Indeed, I have some bugs that appeared through installs, like an echoing while calling or sometimes the network doesn't works anymore after ann accidental full discharge.
So to remove these issues, I think it would be great to reinstall android from the beginning, just like you do with a normal OS on a computer. Just wipe everything and clean install
I already did a few fresh installs by going from android 7 up to 9, just to be sure I didn't miss any firmware version, but I don't like the idea of installing something over bugs.
Thank you for your help, and sorry for the mistakes I probably did in my thread (I'm not a native speaker )
Firmware version
Well, it's been a few days since I firstly posted this (Happy new year!! )
I forgot to mention something: The main reason why I want to do this is because I'm not sure about my firmware version, nor if I installed all the versions properly as I don't understand quite well what happens in the memory while flashing something
I just bought an S5E, and having owned two previous Samsung devices, I expected a fair amount of bloat, but not nearly the amount I discovered. It makes my previous two Samsungs look downright slender. Particularly loathsome, in my view, is the way SS has hijacked Find My Mobile and Google Messages, the latter of which, as a Google Fi customer, I have to use for SMS.
Hence, I am going to root, and cleanse this otherwise delightful device with the fire of 1000 suns. I have rooted Android devices before, but it's been a while, and my memory hasn't improved with age, so I have several questions, some about rooting in general, and some specific to this device. I should add that, while I am not opposed to performance gains and newer versions of Android and suchlike, my only pressing concern is to de-Samsungize the bejeebers out of this thing. Other than that, something like a stock version of Android and an otherwise low-maintenance tablet will make me very happy. So, here goes:
I have the PewPewk method bookmarked, and believe I have one or two others using various combinations of ADB and Magisk and suchlike bookmarked. I imagine I can handle them, but they look complicated. Are any of the apparently simpler approaches found here effective, sufficient to achieve my goals, and unlikely to brick me?
What are the advantages of Custom Android Recoveries relative to the stock Android, and if they add much in the way of complications, can I live without them?
Do I need a custom ROM, and more specifically, do I need one to give me non-Samsungized versions of Find My Mobile and Google Messages? At a minimum, I need the garden-variety version of Google Messages so I can text like a normal person, not a Samsung zombie.
Again, I don't really need tweaks for performance or new versions of Android, but I do need to get bug fixes and security patches with a minimum of fuss. How do I find that minimal sweet spot?
If the answers to one or more of these question are that yes, I need a custom recovery and/or ROM - I suspect this will be the case - then can anyone recommend good candidates that will get me the outcomes I'm looking for without perplexing me too greatly and making me want to cuss?
Can anyone identify the questions which I should be asking, but which didn't occur to me, and then pose them and answer them?
I'm confident that I'm in the right forum to get the answers I need, so all advice will be greatly appreciated.
smilejack1 said:
I just bought an S5E, and having owned two previous Samsung devices, I expected a fair amount of bloat, but not nearly the amount I discovered. It makes my previous two Samsungs look downright slender. Particularly loathsome, in my view, is the way SS has hijacked Find My Mobile and Google Messages, the latter of which, as a Google Fi customer, I have to use for SMS.
Hence, I am going to root, and cleanse this otherwise delightful device with the fire of 1000 suns. I have rooted Android devices before, but it's been a while, and my memory hasn't improved with age, so I have several questions, some about rooting in general, and some specific to this device. I should add that, while I am not opposed to performance gains and newer versions of Android and suchlike, my only pressing concern is to de-Samsungize the bejeebers out of this thing. Other than that, something like a stock version of Android and an otherwise low-maintenance tablet will make me very happy. So, here goes:
I have the PewPewk method bookmarked, and believe I have one or two others using various combinations of ADB and Magisk and suchlike bookmarked. I imagine I can handle them, but they look complicated. Are any of the apparently simpler approaches found here effective, sufficient to achieve my goals, and unlikely to brick me?
What are the advantages of Custom Android Recoveries relative to the stock Android, and if they add much in the way of complications, can I live without them?
Do I need a custom ROM, and more specifically, do I need one to give me non-Samsungized versions of Find My Mobile and Google Messages? At a minimum, I need the garden-variety version of Google Messages so I can text like a normal person, not a Samsung zombie.
Again, I don't really need tweaks for performance or new versions of Android, but I do need to get bug fixes and security patches with a minimum of fuss. How do I find that minimal sweet spot?
If the answers to one or more of these question are that yes, I need a custom recovery and/or ROM - I suspect this will be the case - then can anyone recommend good candidates that will get me the outcomes I'm looking for without perplexing me too greatly and making me want to cuss?
Can anyone identify the questions which I should be asking, but which didn't occur to me, and then pose them and answer them?
I'm confident that I'm in the right forum to get the answers I need, so all advice will be greatly appreciated.
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Click to collapse
Hello there
Your questions are really deep, maybe that is why no answers so far
I'm not an expert at all, so I can't give you comprehensive answers. But I rooted Tab S5e successfully (on stock ROM) and I've read a lot about modifying it, so I can share just few hints.
I wouldn't bother of any other rooting method than Magisk. However, this tab isn't as easy to root as most of the other devices... By far the best and comprehensive guide to root the stock ROM is here:
Galaxy Tab S5e (SM-T720) - Root Instructions (Release 1.0) | XDA Developers Forums (xda-developers.com)
If you follow it closely, you shouldn't have problems. I did it and can confirm it's working fine.
I haven't used custom ROM on this device, but there are some available, especially LineageOS from the recognized developer and one of the LineageOS team member. You can take a look on those threads:
[ROM][OFFICIAL][gts4lvwifi][10] LineageOS 17.1 | XDA Developers Forums (xda-developers.com)
[ROM][UNOFFICIAL][gts4lvwifi][11] LineageOS 18.1 | XDA Developers Forums (xda-developers.com)
In order to flash custom ROM you need custom recovery. There is TWRP available:
Samsung Galaxy Tab S5e WiFi (twrp.me)
Again, I did not try to flash it, I've heard it's tricky, so you need to dig dipper inside those threads and articles.
Alternatively, there is a method to debloat stock ROM without root. It is described in this thread:
[Guide] Samsung Galaxy Tab S5e Debloat Without Root-Info | XDA Developers Forums (xda-developers.com)
Hope it helps!
Thank you for your input. By the time you offered it, I had plunged ahead with the rooting method you suggested. Overall, it went well, but I'm having a few issues with the tablet since getting Lineage 17.1 installed.
I have made a new post requesting help with those issues, which can be found here. If you can offer any advice thereupon, I would be greatly appreciative, and if not, thank you for your efforts above.