How to Root and Unlock Sony Xperia Arc S (LT18i) with Different Build Numbers
If you own a Sony Xperia Arc S (LT18i) and want to root and unlock it, you may have encountered some difficulties depending on your firmware build number. There are different methods for rooting and unlocking the device depending on whether you have build number .42, .58 or .62. In this article, we will show you how to root and unlock your Xperia Arc S (LT18i) with any of these build numbers.
What You Need
- A Sony Xperia Arc S (LT18i) with a charged battery.
- A USB cable to connect your device to your computer.
- A backup of your personal data, as rooting and unlocking will wipe your device.
- A Windows PC with Flashtool installed. You can download Flashtool from here.
- A SuperSU zip file copied to your SD card. You can download SuperSU from here.
- A CWM or TWRP added kernel for your build number. You can download them from here.
- An unlock code for your device. You can get it from here.
How to Root and Unlock Your Device
- First, you need to unlock the bootloader of your device. This will allow you to flash custom kernels and ROMs. To do this, follow the instructions on this page. Note that unlocking the bootloader will void your warranty and erase your data.
- Next, you need to flash a CWM or TWRP added kernel for your build number. This will allow you to install SuperSU and gain root access. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open Flashtool on your PC and click on the lightning icon.
- Select Flashmode and choose the kernel file that matches your build number (.42, .58 or .62).
- Connect your device to your PC while holding the volume down button.
- Wait for Flashtool to flash the kernel and then disconnect your device.
- Finally, you need to install SuperSU and complete the rooting process. To do this, follow these steps:
- Power on your device and press the volume up button repeatedly until you see the CWM or TWRP recovery menu.
- Select Install Zip and choose the SuperSU zip file from your SD card.
- Swipe to confirm the installation and then reboot your device.
- Open SuperSU app on your device and update the binary if prompted.
Congratulations! You have successfully rooted and unlocked your Sony Xperia Arc S (LT18i) with any build number. You can now enjoy custom ROMs, mods and tweaks on your device.
Some Tips and Warnings
Before you proceed with rooting and unlocking your device, here are some tips and warnings that you should keep in mind:
- Make sure you have the correct kernel file for your build number. Flashing the wrong kernel may brick your device.
- Make sure you have a backup of your data, as unlocking the bootloader will erase everything on your device.
- Make sure you have enough battery power before starting the process. If your device shuts down during the process, it may get damaged.
- Be careful when installing custom ROMs, mods and tweaks. Some of them may not be compatible with your device or may contain bugs or malware.
- Rooting and unlocking your device will void your warranty and may affect your device's performance and security. Do it at your own risk.
Some FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions that you may have about rooting and unlocking your device:
- How can I check my build number?
- You can check your build number by going to Settings > About phone > Build number on your device.
- What are the benefits of rooting and unlocking?
- Rooting and unlocking your device will give you more control and customization options. You can install custom ROMs, mods and tweaks that can enhance your device's features, performance and appearance. You can also remove bloatware, ads and unwanted apps from your device.
- Can I revert back to stock firmware?
- Yes, you can revert back to stock firmware if you want to. You can use Flashtool to flash the original firmware file for your device. You can download the firmware file from here. Note that flashing stock firmware will unroot and relock your device.
51082c0ec5