Without a comprehensive root method for all Android phones and tablets, a device-specific approach is needed. And since we're always discussing every new root method for all popular phones and tablets in Gadget Hacks, we've created this ever-updated guide to hack any Android device.
Whenever we find new and better ways to root, we will update this post. Mark it now, and we'll be ready when you get your next new phone or tablet. Currently, this guide covers the following tools and methods.
What is the root?
In the simplest terms, "root" is the topmost folder on your Android device. If you have experience using Windows Explorer, you can think of root as the C: \ drive, where all your other folders like My Documents, Program Files and your Windows files are saved.
However, unlike Windows, Android does not let you access these top-level folders and keeps you stuck behind a virtual wall about half the file trees. This is done so that novice users do not accidentally compromise their device by deleting the necessary files.
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The robbery of your device gives you access to these top folders so you can make system-level changes such as getting rid of bloatware apps, blocking ads in apps, or even changing your SystemUI to give you a full look and feel to your device.
There are some shortcomings to rooting your device, especially your device will most likely not receive over-the-air (in most cases) firmware updates. Secondly, rooting void warranty on most devices, so maybe you are out of luck at the moment if something happens to your phone after rooting. Lastly, there is a potential security risk associated with it, as your device will also grant access to your top-level folders. However, you should be able to reduce these concerns by installing a root manager like SuperSU.
CF Auto Root: Multi-Device Rooting Tool
Due to the vast number of Android devices on the market and the differences between these devices, there isn't a rooting method that will universally work on all devices. However, there is a tool you can utilize for many of the most popular Android devices. CF Auto Root, created by developer Chainfire, works on hundreds of devices on their latest firmware. You will need to use a computer with CF Auto Root, so make sure you have access to one before you begin.
CF Auto Root works by unlocking your device's bootloader, so remember that if you use a device with a locked bootloader, you will lose all the data stored using this method, so be sure to back up your files before you start. . Usually, the only phones with locked bootloaders are models sold through Verizon and AT & T in the U.S., while phones sold through Sprint and T-Mobile are generally unlocked. Some devices, such as Nexus and Moto X / Z handsets, are universal to all operators, so you can open them.
Almost all international variants will leave the bootloader unlocked.
In addition, you need access to a Windows PC to use CF Auto Root with Samsung devices, but for other Android devices you can use a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer.
Amazon Kindle Fire HDX
Even with all the heavy modifications made by Amazon, Kindle Fire HDX is still an Android device at heart. Because it uses the same Linux kernel base as owned by the Google Android version, HDX can take root using the Towelroot Method.
You have to install a root management app so root access will not disappear without your permission, but it's as easy as installing any app from Amazon Appstore.
Amazon Fire HD 7
The third-generation Amazon third-generation Fire Fire tablet now has a root method - but this only applies to the 2014 model. Nevertheless, the process is fairly quick and painless, as it involves the use of KingRoot.
Google Chromecast
Just because it's not a phone or tablet doesn't mean we shouldn't root it. Adding root-level permissions to the ROM that operates the Chromecast can allow you to customize the welcome screen, make changes to the DNS (to watch locked-out content), and more.
You can also install custom TWRP recovery on Fire HD 7, which means your Amazon tablet can be opened to the Android world with ZIP code that is explosive.
The process is also fairly easy and straightforward, but does require a few pieces of equipment that you may or may not have lying around. Check out our full guide to rooting the Chromecast for all the details.
Google Nexus 4 / Nexus 5
As Google's flagship phone itself, Nexus has always been the easiest tool to take root. N4 and N5 are no exceptions here, as legendary developer Chainfire creates a handy tool that will not only take root from your phone but will also open your bootloader to allow special installation of recovery using the CF-Auto-Root Method.
Any questions or issues you may have about this method can be directed to our full guide for crawling Nexus phones with CF-Auto-Root.
Because the unloading process of your bootloader deletes the existing data, you may want to use the Towelroot Method instead, which is rooted while letting your bootloader intact. You can check our complete guide to rotate your Nexus phone with Handukroot for further assistance.
Google Nexus 6
Nexus 6 takes root even before crashing into store shelves, thanks to the famous Android developer Chainfire. By using the Auto Root CF method, all you need is a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer and about 5 minutes. The automated method requires that you have an unlocked bootloader (which will erase the data if it has not been opened), but the rooting script can also handle it for you.
Google Nexus 7 (2012 / 2013)
Every Nexus owner should have the Nexus Root Toolkit installed on their Windows PC. This powerful tool has the ability to root any Nexus device, but is capable of much more. With functions ranging from creating a backup to installing a custom recovery, NRT is a great companion program for your Nexus 7.Other Android Devices
While we try our best to cover the root process for most major flagship devices, we couldn't get our hands on every Android phone and tablet to test. But that doesn't mean you're out of luck if your device is not listed above.
The Towelroot Method is designed for any Android device with a kernel build date of June 3rd, 2014 or older. The only exceptions to this rule are HTC devices, so chances are, your phone or tablet is covered by this method.
With Towelroot, there's no harm in trying. Simply run the app, and you'll likely be rooted. If not, the worst-case scenario is that the app tells you it couldn't root your device, so you've got nothing to lose.
For any questions or comments about Towelroot, refer to our full guide on rooting Android with Towelroot. While the device depicted in that guide is a Samsung Galaxy S5, the process will be the same on any other phone or tablet.